WANA (Jul 15) – Iran’s Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, stated that the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is gradually expanding its role on the global stage, moving beyond its traditional regional focus.

 

Speaking about his visit to China, Araghchi said, “My trip is to participate in the 25th Meeting of the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers, which will be held on Tuesday in the city of Tianjin, hosted by the Chinese government.”

 

He added, “The SCO is increasingly establishing its position globally. It is gradually transcending its regional framework, addressing a wide range of economic, political, and security issues.”

 

Araghchi noted that during this meeting, the organisation’s development strategy and the strategies of member states in sectors such as energy, trade, and other fields will be finalised. “Naturally, international issues of the day will also be discussed,” he said.

 

He further mentioned that on the sidelines of the meeting, there will be opportunities for bilateral talks. “We will have a bilateral meeting with China’s Foreign Minister, which is particularly important under the current circumstances, as well as with Russia’s Foreign Minister and other SCO members to discuss bilateral relations and regional developments,” Araghchi explained.

 

In response to a question regarding the SCO’s reaction to the recent Israeli and US attacks on Iran, the senior diplomat said, “The attacks by the Israeli regime and the United States against the Islamic Republic of Iran and our nuclear facilities have been condemned by almost all international and regional organisations, including BRICS, SCO, the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. Over 120 countries have condemned these attacks and expressed solidarity and support for Iran.”

 

Araghchi concluded, “The SCO issued a commendable statement at the time. Today, this issue will also be discussed during general sessions, and I will address it extensively in my speech.”