Muzaffar Djalalov, head of Inha University in Tashkent, says the SCO must be a development platform above all. Disagreements within members on various issues are natural, he says.

“All the members have their own interests and policies. But what’s clear is that the SCO is not a military bloc and should not be seen as a ‘scale’ balancing between the West, on the one hand, and Russia or China.”

Djalalov sees the SCO members eager to partner in areas closer to the agenda that Central Asians tend to prioritize—education, science, and healthcare. He cheers President Mirziyoyev’s proposals for a SCO role promoting digital literacy and information technology.

“Some SCO countries have better experience and skills. Collaboration in these fields is key for our overall development.”