SCO Cities Emphasize Digitally Empowered Governance, Trust-Based Cooperation, and Security as Keys to Sustainable Development

Strategic Insights -

The Global Mayors Dialogue: SCO Summit Cities, held in Tianjin from July 7 to 10, brought together nearly 20 representatives of SCO member states and cities to engage in discussions on urban governance, cooperation, and security. As cities worldwide prioritize smart city development, China's experience in enhancing governance through digital technologies drew attention from visiting delegates. The summit highlighted digitized governance, trust-based cooperation, and security as the foundation for growth in future city development.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 20 smart city projects have been implemented in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, drawing on Chinese experience, with plans for cooperation in urban governance and enterprise management.
  • Russia's Moscow is facing significant pressure on urban mobility, with 16.6 million trips daily and 6 billion trips annually, driving interest in China's low-altitude economy, including "air taxis" and drone-based traffic monitoring.
  • Trust among SCO countries is built on transparent, open interactions, cultural affinity, and mutual understanding, with China and Kyrgyzstan sharing cultural ties dating back over 2,000 years.
  • A key concern among participants was ensuring security as the foundation for sustainable development, with discussions on combating international crime, artificial intelligence challenges, and public health and personal safety protection.
  • Attendees called for the creation of a broader platform under the SCO to enable city leaders to discuss and coordinate on security matters regularly, enhancing joint decision-making and responses.

Statistics:

  • Over 6 billion trips are handled annually by the public transport system in Moscow.
  • China has announced plans to offer 1,000 youth exchange places for young people from SCO countries over the next five years.
  • Dushanbe has implemented more than 20 smart city projects, drawing on Chinese experience.

Sources:

  • Xinhua News
  • COMTEX_467195885/2084/2025