The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a Eurasian political, economic, and security alliance founded in 2001 by China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Over the years, the SCO has expanded and has included India and Pakistan as full members since 2017.
Recently, Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in joining the organization, and the proposal has now been officially approved by the Council of Ministers. This move represents a significant development in the organization's expansion plans and is expected to have a significant impact on the political and economic landscape of the region.
The SCO covers an enormous landmass, accounting for 60% of Eurasia's total land area. With a population of over 3 billion people, it accounts for around 40% of the world's population. Moreover, its member countries also account for a substantial portion of the world's GDP, with 30% of the global GDP being generated in the SCO countries.
The benefits of membership in the SCO include increased economic cooperation, trade, and investment opportunities. Additionally, membership also provides a platform for member countries to address security concerns and promote regional stability. Saudi Arabia's membership in the SCO is expected to further enhance the organization's influence and provide more opportunities for the member countries to collaborate and address common challenges.
Overall, the approval of Saudi Arabia's membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is a significant development in the organization's expansion plans and is likely to have far-reaching implications for the region's political and economic dynamics.