Xi Jinping Drops 100-Tech-Project Bombshell, Pitches AI Hub as SCO Turns 25

Chinese President Xi Jinping used the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, to push for a sweeping expansion of the bloc’s role in technology and security, marking its 25th anniversary with concrete offers and a sharp rebuke of bloc-based confrontation [232581][232658]. Xi announced that China will jointly carry out 100 scientific and technological cooperation projects with SCO member states over the next three years, alongside the creation of a China-SCO basic education cooperation center [232114][232108]. He also proposed the establishment of an artificial intelligence development hub, aiming to deepen tech ties among member states and position the group—which includes Russia, India, Pakistan, and several Central Asian states—as a pillar of stability in a fragmented world [232581].

Speaking at the Council of Heads of State meeting, Xi said the organization had shown “strong vitality” since its founding a quarter-century ago, adding that its history offered “sobering lessons of the Cold War” [232658]. In an apparent reference to Washington’s network of military alliances, Xi argued that true stability cannot be achieved through unilateral actions or military pacts, but rather through cooperative, inclusive frameworks that respect the sovereignty of all nations [232201]. He did not name the United States directly [232658].

Xi called on member states to make security their top priority, urging a shared environment of “universal security” and emphasizing that collective safety is essential for regional stability and development [232113][232201]. He stressed that the bloc’s governance should be improved in a fair and orderly way, with dialogue and consultation as its primary tools for resolving differences [232107]. The Chinese leader also framed development as both a strategic goal and a practical tool for regional stability, saying China regards the SCO as a priority area for the high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative and the implementation of the Global Development Initiative [232117][232116].

Xi underscored the importance of people-centered cooperation, saying this approach would lay a solid foundation for friendship across generations [232110]. He also said China is ready to work with all parties to put the Global Civilization Initiative into practice, promoting mutual respect and dialogue among different cultures [232109]. No specific timeline or budget for the AI hub was disclosed, and the summit’s final communique highlighted “joint efforts” on digital infrastructure without detailing binding commitments [232581]. The summit continues through Wednesday, with leaders expected to discuss trade, connectivity, and regional stability [232658]. The next SCO chairmanship will be handed to China, which is expected to steer the group’s priorities toward innovation and connectivity [232581].