Qingdao (TDI): The 22nd meeting of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) defense ministers concluded on June 26 in Qingdao, Shandong province, China.
Hosted by China under its 2025 rotating SCO presidency, the two-day session brought together defense chiefs from all ten full member states, including China, India, Russia, Pakistan, Iran, Belarus, and Central Asian countries.
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The agenda covered discussions on regional security dynamics, counter-terrorism cooperation, and measures to enhance joint preparedness and information sharing. The meeting reviewed ongoing joint initiatives, including the proposed framework for establishing what is described as “a common home” within the SCO.
The themes, as outlined by China’s Defense Ministry, included solidarity, mutual trust, regional peace, development, and principles of fairness in international engagement.
In his speech, SCO Secretary-General N. Yermekbayev emphasized the importance of cooperation among the defense agencies of SCO member states. He said that this cooperation helps members effectively respond to modern security challenges and threats.
He also added that cooperation strengthens trust in the military, allows for joint military exercises, and promotes collaborative efforts in military medicine.
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Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun chaired the meeting and delivered a keynote address on global strategic dynamics. He criticized the rise of unilateralism, protectionism, and hegemonic practices, which he identified as major sources of instability.
Minister Dong called for increased cooperation through multilateral platforms, such as the United Nations (UN) and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), to uphold fairness, justice, and strategic stability.
Other ministers highlighted ongoing regional security concerns and expressed support for China’s role in strengthening SCO institutional mechanisms. Belarus, newly admitted as a full member, voiced interest in expanding practical defense collaboration.
Iran’s defense minister appreciated China’s stance toward Middle Eastern tensions and urged continued diplomatic support. Pakistan’s defense minister emphasized the importance of Chinese backing in maintaining regional stability.
Areeba Kanwal is a contributor at The Diplomatic Insight and has passion for International Relations and diplomacy.
