With new member, SCO eyes closer cooperation amid global challenges

Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed Iran into the ninth member state of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and called on SCO member states to stay in unity and coordination so as to bring more certainty and positive energy to world peace and development.

Iran's full-scale admission was formalized at the 23rd meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the organization. Calling for making the world a better place, Xi told SCO leaders that China is ready to work with other member states to actively implement the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative.

The SCO is headquartered in Beijing, but the virtual summit is being hosted by India -- which holds its rotating chair -- with the leaders of Russia, Pakistan and several Central Asian countries also participating.