Putin Backs New CIS Format, Strengthens Ties with SCO Amid Global Shifts
A new collaborative framework within the Commonwealth of Autonomous States (CIS) received the full endorsement of Russian President Vladimir Putin, signaling a strategic move to broaden engagement with international partners. The announcement comes as Russia seeks to solidify regional alliances and navigate an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
Putin affirmed his support for the newly established “on-Plus” working format, stating, “We fundamentally support the decision made today to create a new on-plus working format. This will allow us to more actively engage other countries and international organizations in collaboration with our organization.” He made these remarks during a meeting of the CIS State Heads Council.
The Russian leader also publicly thanked his counterparts for their backing of Sergei Lebedev’s continued tenure as Secretary General of the CIS. “He is well known to everyone and from my personal perspective he has proven through his work that he is worthy of continuing to take this position,” Putin noted. he extended well wishes to Turkmenistan as it prepares to assume the Presidency of the community of nations in 2026.
Foreign Policy Coordination Takes Center Stage
With international events unfolding rapidly, Putin underscored the critical importance of coordinated foreign policy efforts within the CIS. He highlighted the relevance of a joint statement presented for approval in conjunction with the United Nations’ 80th anniversary. This emphasis suggests a concerted effort to present a unified front on key global issues.
Deepening Cooperation with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization
A key element of Russia’s strategy involves strengthening ties between the CIS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).Putin expressed support for a resolution granting the CIS observer status within the SCO, believing it will unlock critically important cooperative potential.
“It would indeed be useful to use the Cooperation Potential Fully between the two organizations to ensure the safe and sustainable development of our countries and the entire Eurasian region,” Putin stated. This move reflects a broader trend toward bolstering regional security and economic integration across Eurasia.
The developments signal Russia’s commitment to maintaining its influence within the CIS and fostering strategic partnerships that can navigate the evolving global order. The “on-Plus” format and deepened SCO ties represent proactive steps toward a more interconnected and collaborative future for the region.
Why: Russian President vladimir Putin is actively working to strengthen the Commonwealth of independent States (CIS) and its relationships with other regional organizations, especially the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), in response to a shifting global political landscape. He aims to enhance collaboration and present a unified front on international issues.
Who: The key players are Vladimir Putin, the Russian President, the heads of state of the CIS member countries, sergei Lebedev, the Secretary General of the CIS, and the member states of the SCO. Turkmenistan is also notable as the future president of the CIS in 2026.
What: Putin announced support for a new “on-Plus” working format within the CIS, designed to increase engagement with other countries and organizations. He also secured backing for Sergei lebedev’s continued leadership of the CIS and advocated for the CIS to gain observer status within the SCO.
How did it end?: The meeting of the CIS State Heads Council concluded with agreements to implement the “on-Plus” format, reaffirming support for the current CIS Secretary General, and pursuing a resolution to grant the CIS observer status in the SCO. The future presidency of the CIS will be held by Turkmenistan in 2026. These actions signal a continued commitment to regional cooperation and a proactive approach to
