On the morning ofDecember23,2024,the21stlectureof the "Cooperation and Development"series, jointly organized by the School of Political Science and Public Administration at Shandong University, the Institute of SCO Studies of Shandong University, the Institute for Public Safety Research of Shandong University, and the China-SCO Institute of Economics and Trade, was successfully heldat themeeting roomon thefourthfloor of Huagangyuan South Building. The theme of this lecture is"Shanghai Cooperation Organization: A New Model of International Cooperation,"andthe lecture was delivered by Djoomart Otorbaev, a distinguished professor at the Belt and Road Institute of Beijing Normal University and a renowned expert on SCO issues who has held important leadership positions for a long time. Thelecturewas chaired by Professor Edmund Li Sheng, Distinguished Professor at the School of Political Science and Public Administration and Executive Dean of the Institute of SCO Studies,Shandong University. Faculty members and students from the school participated in the academic exchange and discussion.

At the beginning of the lecture, Professor Otorbaev focused on the new model of international cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), elaborating on the SCO's origins, development, membership structure, and its significant role in the global economy and geopolitics. He then reviewed the institutionalization process of the SCO, highlighting its role in maintaining regional peace, security, and stability, and promoting the establishment of a new, democratic, just, and equitable international political and economic order. Furthermore, by introducing a series of infrastructure projects and trade cooperation initiatives promoted by the SCO, such as the China-Kazakhstan Horgos Cooperation Center, the China-SCO Local Economic and Trade Cooperation Demonstration Zone, and the construction of multiple cross-border railway lines, Professor Otorbaev pointed out that the SCO has not only facilitated economic ties among member countries but also injected new vitality into the overall development of regional security, economy, education, and other areas. Additionally, Professor Otorbaev emphasized the achievements of SCO cooperation in the field of education, including the regular convening of meetings of ministers of education, the conduct of joint research, and the development of digital education. These efforts have not only contributed to improving the quality of education in various countries but also provided a broad platform for exchanges and mutual learning among the younger generation.

During the interactive session, faculty members and students engaged in lively discussions and exchanges on topics such as Central Asian countries' responses to great power competition, relations among SCO member countries, and the effectiveness and autonomy of the SCO mechanism. ProfessorEdmund Li Shengexpressed gratitude to Professor Otorbaev for his presence and sharing, noting that as a model of multilateral cooperation among countries, the SCO's "Shanghai Spirit," centered on mutual trust and mutual benefit, is being accepted by more and more countries, which indicates that the SCO will continue to grow and develop in the future.

This lecture provided a comprehensive understanding of the SCO as a new model of international cooperation for the attending faculty and students, offering a platform for discussions on the SCO's role in promoting regional and even global peace and development. The School of Political Science and Public Administration at Shandong University remains committed to providing high-quality academic resources for its faculty and students, both domestically and internationally. We encourage continued attention to the school’s updates and the "Cooperation and Development" lecture series organized by the Institute of SCO Studies.