Putin, Xi, Iran’s Pezeshkian in Kyrgyzstan for summit

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The SCO, which includes Russia, China, India, Turkey, Iran, Central Asian countries, and Belarus, is marking its 25th anniversary. Upon their arrival, Putin and Xi had a handshake meeting, with Putin reportedly meeting with Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian as well.

Iran's Pezeshkian voiced his belief that continuing the ongoing conflict with the United States was not in Tehran's best interest. Speaking after the first exchange of fire between the US and Iran, Pezeshkian emphasized the need for agreement and understanding in the region.

The two-day summit aims to be a counterbalance to the West, with its members facing various real and trade wars, such as the Ukraine conflict and US tariffs on Chinese and Indian goods. Some SCO members, like Iran, have significantly deepened their military and economic ties with Russia and China since Moscow's Ukraine invasion.

The SCO, historically focused on economic matters, has gained momentum under Moscow and Beijing's leadership. With 15 dialogue partners and two observer countries, the SCO has historically claimed to be an alliance not directed against other states. However, Putin and Xi have often made anti-Western statements during their summits.

This Bishkek summit takes place amidst the ongoing real and trade wars in the Ukraine and Iran conflicts, as well as US-imposed economic sanctions on Iran. Despite facing economic difficulties, Iran has remained committed to its membership in the SCO, believing it can help circumvent US and European sanctions. However, the bloc's benefits are uncertain, especially during times of crisis, as some disagreements among members persist.