Türkiye Seeks Full Membership in Shanghai Cooperation Organization
Türkiye aims to become a full member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), as announced by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during a press conference in Washington after the NATO summit. The announcement was broadcasted by TRT Haber TV channel.
Currently, Türkiye holds observer status in the SCO. President Erdogan stated, “The goal of Turkey, which is now an observer in the SCO, is full membership in the organization. Now it must join the Shanghai Five.” He mentioned discussing this matter with the leaders of Russia and China.
Erdogan attended the SCO summit in Astana on July 3-4, where he expressed a desire to strengthen relations with Russia and China within the organization.
SCO Secretary-General Zhang Ming noted that despite Türkiye’s membership in NATO, it actively participates in the SCO’s activities, which are not directed against other states. He emphasized that cooperation with Ankara is based on the principles outlined in the organization’s charter, following the “Shanghai spirit.”
