Laos accepted as SCO dialogue partner

Laos accepted as SCO dialogue partner

Laos was accepted as a dialogue partner of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) at the SCO summit held in Tianjin, China, on September 1, 2025. The event marked a significant expansion for the SCO, which now includes 10 members, 15 dialogue partners, and two observers [1].

The SCO summit, hosted by China and presided over by President Xi Jinping, brought together more than 20 heads of state and 10 chiefs of international organizations. Among the attendees were Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and various Southeast Asian leaders, including Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh [2].

Prime Minister Modi attended the summit on its third day, meeting with President Putin to discuss the Ukraine conflict. Modi emphasized the need for humanity to end the conflict promptly [1].

President Xi Jinping delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of multilateralism and regional stability. He called for better alignment of development strategies among member states, promoting the Belt and Road Initiative, and advocating for an equal and orderly multipolar world [2].

Laos' acceptance as a dialogue partner signifies a strengthening of its ties with the SCO and its potential to benefit from the organization's economic and security initiatives. The SCO has expanded its focus from security and counter-terrorism to economic and military cooperation, making it a significant player in global governance [2].

Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính of Vietnam met with Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith on the sidelines of the summit to discuss areas of cooperation, including trade, infrastructure, and mineral exploration. The meeting underscored the deep-rooted solidarity between the two countries [3].

The SCO's expansion and the inclusion of Laos as a dialogue partner are expected to enhance regional cooperation and contribute to global economic stability. As the organization continues to grow, it will play a crucial role in shaping the future of international relations and economic development.

References:
[1] https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/laos-accepted-as-dialogue-partner-of-the-sco/article69999119.ece
[2] https://www.channelnewsasia.com/east-asia/china-sco-tianjin-xi-jinping-multilateralism-global-stability-5322246
[3] https://vietnamnews.vn/politics-laws/1724401/pm-meets-with-top-lao-leader-on-sco-summit-sidelines.html