The Role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Regional Development

Abstract

The organization was formally established in 2001 with the goal of collaborating on regional security and combating terrorism. The invisible goal of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization is to counter the growing influence of the United States in the region in the post-9/11 scenario. The access of the two armed nuclear-weapon states, the improved economies and the large standing armies has added new dimensions to SCO framework conditions. With this long-awaited expansion, Pakistan has renewed the prospects of contributing to regional peace and stability through economic and military integration with SCO member states. Moreover, under the flagship of the SCO, Pakistan could improve its relations with most of its neighbours, which are members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.