Saudi Arabia Joins Shanghai Cooperation with China, Russia, India, Pakistan, and more
This post covers Saudi Arabia joining the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) with China, Russia, India, Pakistan and more.
Saudi Arabia and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization
The recent decision by Saudi Arabia to join the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) as a dialogue partner marks a significant step in its growing relationship with China. The SCO is the world’s largest political, economic, and military alliance. It includes China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and other member states.
Saudi Arabia’s move follows its resumption of relations with Iran, facilitated by China.
BRICS and the move away from the dollar
Meanwhile, the BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) have been increasing their political maneuvers. China settling a bilateral deal with Brazil to purchase LNG in their national currencies is one example. India is also facilitating international trade settlements in rupees. Russia has suggested that the BRICS bloc discuss a new reserve currency.
The United States and the Shanghai Cooperation members
The United States’ presence in Central Asia has been a concern for SCO members, leading to the denial of observer status in 2005. In recent years, the relationship between the United States and China and Russia has deteriorated significantly. The two countries are seeking new alliances in Africa.
It has been suggested that Africa’s relationships with China and Russia could lead to a cold war with the United States.
Key takeaways
- Saudi Arabia joined the SCO as a dialogue partner.
- The SCO is the world’s largest political, economic, and military alliance.
- The BRICS countries have been increasing their political maneuvers.
- The United States’ presence in Central Asia has been a concern for SCO members.
Learn more about the group on Wikipedia.
