The 2025 Media Cooperation Forum of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) concluded in Urumqi, Xinjiang, showcasing a powerful message of regional media solidarity and collaboration. Hosted by People’s Daily, the event gathered over 300 representatives from 26 countries—spanning Central Asia, South Asia, and Eastern Europe—including media leaders, government officials, and academics.
Held on May 23, the forum featured dialogues, cultural exchange programs, and panel discussions aimed at deepening media ties among SCO members. The overarching theme was “Building a More Beautiful Home Together for a Prosperous Future,” aligning with the ‘Shanghai Spirit’—mutual trust, benefit, and respect for diverse civilizations.
In the opening session, CICG Vice President Yu Yunquan emphasised the media’s growing responsibility in shaping balanced narratives and combating misinformation. He called for multilingual content platforms and deeper cooperation among media houses.
Erkin Tuniyaz, Deputy Secretary of the CPC Xinjiang Committee, highlighted the region’s economic growth and social stability, inviting global journalists to explore Xinjiang’s development firsthand. He also stressed Xinjiang’s growing role under China’s Belt and Road Initiative as a connector between Asia and Europe.
The forum included panels such as “Media Cooperation for a Community of Shared Future” and “Driving Innovation for a Shared Future of Convergence,” which explored digital transformation, the use of AI, and strategies to counter fake news and biased narratives.
One of the key highlights was the release of the report “Common Home: Public Opinion on the Development Visions in SCO Member States”, showing that over 80% of respondents viewed the SCO positively and believed in its contributions to global governance and development.
In addition to discussions, media representatives visited various parts of Xinjiang, including Urumqi and Yining City, engaging in cultural and economic field visits, further strengthening people-to-people ties.
As China holds the SCO presidency in 2025, the forum set a clear tone: SCO media must play an active role in telling their own stories and advancing a shared global vision.

Published by Business Ceylon