CaliToday (02/9/2025): Against the backdrop of the high-profile Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, Ukraine has made a direct diplomatic appeal, urging host nation China to leverage its significant influence to persuade Russia to end the ongoing conflict. The plea came as the summit concluded in Tianjin with member states adopting the "Tianjin Declaration," a commitment to bolstering regional security and economic integration, highlighted by plans to establish a new development bank.
Ukraine's Diplomatic Overture
In a significant diplomatic move, Kyiv has publicly called on Beijing to play a more active role in resolving the war. A statement from Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized China's close relationship with Moscow and its position as a major global power. "We call on the Chinese side to use its influence with Russia to bring an end to the armed aggression," the statement read. This appeal, strategically timed during a major international summit hosted by China, places Beijing in a complex diplomatic position, testing its stated commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity against its strategic partnership with Russia.
SCO Summit Concludes with Focus on Security and Economy
The summit itself marked a key moment for the Eurasian political, economic, and security alliance. The leaders of the member states formally adopted the "Tianjin Declaration," a comprehensive document that underscores a shared commitment to regional security, counter-terrorism efforts, and deepening economic cooperation.
One of the most notable outcomes of the summit is the formalized plan to establish an SCO Development Bank. This new financial institution is intended to fund major infrastructure and development projects across member states, creating an alternative financing mechanism to Western-led institutions like the World Bank and IMF. The bank aims to facilitate trade, improve connectivity, and promote sustainable development within the bloc, further cementing economic ties among its members.
Key Bilateral Meetings on the Sidelines
The summit also served as a crucial venue for high-stakes bilateral diplomacy. A particularly noteworthy meeting took place between the leaders of India and China. The discussions were reportedly focused on two critical and long-standing issues: the de-escalation of military tensions along their disputed border and the enhancement of bilateral trade. Both sides expressed a commitment to continue dialogue to ensure peace and tranquility in the border regions, which is seen as a prerequisite for the healthy development of their broader relationship.
In summary, the SCO summit in Tianjin has not only reinforced the strategic alignment of its member states but has also become a focal point for broader international diplomacy. While the bloc solidifies its internal security and economic frameworks, Ukraine's appeal to China introduces a critical external challenge, highlighting the interconnected nature of global conflicts and the pivotal role regional powers are expected to play in shaping international peace and security.