Erdogan Eyes Deeper Cooperation with Shanghai Cooperation Organization, Cites ‘Emerging Star’
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated on Tuesday that Turkey aims to deepen its cooperation with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which he characterized as an “emerging star.” Speaking at the Shanghai Plus meeting in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Erdogan emphasized Turkey’s drive to advance collaboration with the SCO in all spheres.
Erdogan highlighted the SCO’s significance, noting that it represents 3.5 billion people and generates $35 trillion in GDP, positioning it as an essential component of a multipolar global order. He affirmed Turkey’s commitment to resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy, continuing its efforts towards global peace, tranquility, and stability. The Turkish President also indicated that the SCO would play a vital role in ensuring secure transport corridors and energy supply security.
Furthermore, Erdogan pointed out Turkey’s intention to contribute to the fight against the adverse effects of climate change, announcing that the nation will host the COP31 summit in Antalya on November 11-12. He also expressed Turkey’s desire for the Middle Corridor initiative, which traverses the Caspian Sea, to align with the Belt and Road Initiative, underscoring the organization’s importance in this regard.
Turning to geopolitical issues, President Erdogan underscored the urgency of not forgetting Gaza and Lebanon, citing that 74,000 lives have been lost in Israeli attacks and warning that the entire region is paying the price for aggressive policies. He also mentioned that the Mecca Defense Pact, founded on regional ownership and collective deterrence, would significantly contribute to both regional and global peace and stability.
