The inaugural “SCO Cycling: 25 Years of Cooperation” championship was successfully held in Beijing, bringing together more than 100 participants from Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states, observer countries, dialogue partners and Chinese institutions to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the SCO.
The cycling event was organized at the initiative of the SCO Secretariat in cooperation with the Secretariat of the SCO Industrialists Committee as part of a series of commemorative activities marking a quarter-century of SCO cooperation and development. Addressing the opening ceremony, SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev highlighted the important role of sports diplomacy in promoting friendship, mutual understanding and practical cooperation among SCO countries. Despite intermittent rain during the ceremony, Yermekbayev praised the determination of the cyclists, comparing them to lions that fear neither wind nor rain as they pursue their goals. He noted that the “SCO Cycling: 25 Years of Cooperation” event reflects the organization’s commitment to fostering people-to-people exchanges and strengthening bonds among the peoples of the SCO family through sports and cultural engagement.
Participants included representatives from diplomatic missions and other official institutions of SCO member states, observer countries and dialogue partners, as well as officials from relevant Chinese government departments. A cultural exhibition and self-service reception were also arranged alongside the sporting event, providing opportunities for interaction and cultural exchange.
Speaking on the occasion, Sohail Khan, Deputy Secretary-General of the SCO from Pakistan, said the cycling championship symbolizes the spirit of friendship, cooperation and mutual trust that has guided the SCO over the past 25 years. “The SCO has evolved into an important platform for regional cooperation, connecting nations through dialogue, development and people-to-people exchanges. Events such as this cycling championship bring our people closer together and demonstrate our shared commitment to building a more connected and prosperous region,” Khan said. He added that Pakistan highly values initiatives that promote cultural understanding, youth engagement and stronger societal links among SCO countries, noting that sports serve as a universal language capable of transcending borders and strengthening regional harmony. Following the competition, an award ceremony was held. Cyclists from China and Russia secured top-place finishes, while Chinese and Russian participants also claimed runner-up positions. The championship title was won by a Russian cyclist. Organizers presented awards and commemorative gifts to all participants. Among the participants was Pakistani student Aizaz Ahmed from the Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU), who delivered an impressive performance by securing a place among the top 10 cyclists in the competition. He said the SCO cycling event provided a valuable platform for young people from different countries to interact, exchange cultural experiences, and strengthen mutual understanding.