AKP Urumqi, May 23, 2025 --

The 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Media Cooperation Forum officially launched today in Urumqi, the capital of China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, uniting media leaders, policymakers, and experts to strengthen dialogue and drive innovation across member states. 

Co-hosted by People’s Daily and the Xinjiang Regional People’s Government, the forum’s opening ceremony was chaired by Mr. Ma Xingrui, Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Secretary of the CPC Xinjiang Regional Committee, alongside Mr. Yu Shaoliang, President of People’s Daily. 

In his opening address, Mr. Ma underscored the forum’s mission to “advance comprehensive media collaboration, amplifying shared narratives of peace, development, and cross-cultural understanding among SCO nations.” Mr. Yu reinforced this vision, calling the event “a pivotal platform to leverage media innovation amid rapid digital transformation and evolving geopolitical dynamics.” 

“It is an honour to welcome all of you to Urumqi for this significant gathering. On behalf of the CPC Xinjiang Committee, the Regional People’s Government, I extend a warm welcome to all guests and sincere appreciation to global media partners who have steadfastly supported Xinjiang’s progress,” stated Mr. Ma.

The 2025 forum coincides with the SCO’s “China Year,” marking 24 years since the organisation’s founding. Originally comprising six member states, the SCO has grown into a 26-nation alliance, now the world’s largest regional body by geography and population.

Mr. Ma highlighted its evolution as a testament to the enduring relevance of the “Shanghai Spirit,” which champions mutual trust, equality, and mutually beneficial cooperation. 

“The SCO has forged a distinctive path of peaceful development,” he added, “showcasing the vitality and cohesion of our shared vision.”

The forum will feature panel discussions on digital media trends, countering misinformation, and fostering cultural exchange, with outcomes expected to shape the SCO’s media strategy for the coming decade.

By K. Rithy Reak