I hadn't, but we should be aware of it. SCO is short for Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Despite its name, it is an affiliation of China, Russia and the "Stans" (Kazakhstan, Krygstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan) that was formed in 2001. It is growing; soon Mongolia, Iran, and our friends, India and Pakistan. will join the organization. It appears to be an attempt to counter our role in Central Asia by establishing a NATO-like organization.
The acceptance of Iran at this time is, I'm sure, quite calculated. The IEAA report is due at the end of the month. We are making all sorts of threats against Iran. By joining SCO, Iran gets access to technology, investment and trade.
At an upcoming SCO summit in June, they hope to anounce a common energy strategy and joint ventures in pipelines, exploration and other related activities.
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