Xi, Putin and Modi looking in different directions as Shanghai Cooperation Organisation marks 25th anniversary

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) marked its 25th anniversary in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, with all the trappings a diplomatic milestone demands. There were 21 heads of state and government present for a ceremonial “family photo” and two-page Bishkek Declaration on September 1. A further 28 agreements included “strengthening multilateral partnership in nuclear safety and nuclear security”. On the face of it, the SCO appeared to be a confident bloc speaking with one voice for…