SCO Summit 2025: AI, Trade Freedom & India’s Stand

From August 31 to September 1, 2025, the city of Tianjin in China hosted the 25th leaders’ summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The gathering brought together top representatives from China, Russia, India, and Central Asian nations to exchange views on matters that could shape the course of global politics in the years ahead. Out of the various discussions, three proposals emerged as particularly significant.

China’s Perspective: AI as the Driver of Future Power

Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized that in the years ahead, the country that leads in artificial intelligence will hold a dominant position in the world. He reminded the gathering that during the Cold War, military power was the deciding factor, but today the focus has shifted towards technological supremacy.

China proposed setting up an AI cooperation centre for SCO members. This centre would aim to strengthen collaboration in research, training, and application of AI technologies, giving all member countries a chance to benefit from shared expertise.

Russia’s Proposal: A Financial System Beyond Sanctions

Russia called for the creation of a financial network that is beyond the reach of United States sanctions. This means building a payment and trade settlement system that allows countries to do business without relying on the US dollar.

If SCO countries combine forces with BRICS nations and trade in their own currencies, nearly 40 percent of global trade could be conducted outside US influence. Such a move could significantly reduce the demand for the dollar and weaken the impact of Western sanctions.

India’s Message: No Place for Double Standards on Terrorism

Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the summit to send a clear signal that terrorism cannot be addressed selectively. He stressed that there should be no “good” or “bad” terrorism depending on political convenience, and that all those responsible for cross-border attacks must face justice.

India’s position reflects its long-standing call for consistent, united, and firm action against terrorism worldwide.

Conclusion

Although China and Russia centered their discussions on artificial intelligence and financial independence, there is a takeaway for India that goes deeper than those points. Whether the big leap in AI came from the United States or China, India already stands out for having the largest community of AI learners anywhere in the world.

This pool of talent is a powerful advantage that can propel the country into a leadership role in the global AI landscape. The path forward lies in constant learning, creative thinking, and practical application of skills. If India keeps building on this foundation, it has the potential to influence not just the tech sector but also the future direction of the global economy and international security.