The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit officially began in Tianjin, China, with a symbolic family photo featuring the gathering’s key leaders.

Those in attendance included Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, alongside host Chinese President Xi Jinping. The image captured the unity of member states as the summit opened its sessions on regional security, economic cooperation, and global diplomacy.

The SCO, founded in 2001, has grown into one of the largest regional organizations in the world, bringing together major powers from Eurasia. This year’s summit carries heightened significance, with discussions expected to focus on counterbalancing Western influence, strengthening economic ties, and addressing regional conflicts.

The family photo served as a symbolic display of cooperation, setting the tone for what is expected to be a pivotal series of talks.