SCO summit concludes with vow to strengthen regional peace and prosperity

The 23rd summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) concluded on Wednesday with a commitment to regional cooperation in various sectors to ensure regionwide peace, prosperity, and stability.

“A comprehensive document that has been signed by the SCO state member, covering a wide cooperation in the field of economy, trade, industry, investment, technology development, transport and connectivity, climate change, public health, culture, poverty elimination, and women and youth empowerment structure,” said deputy prime Minister Ishaq Dar while briefing the SCO meeting minutes with Secretary General SCO, Zhang Ming.

“In a joint communication, the SCO leaders have affirmed the resolve to further strengthen cooperation to build a peaceful, safe, prosperous and environmentally friendly earth,” Dar added.

During the meeting, the members expressed concern over emerging global issues such as climate change, trade, and generating uncertainty in global financial markets through the adoption of unlawful ways and measures of trading.

The members also approved the budget for human resources in two bodies - the SCO secretariat and the regional terrorism structure.

“SCO members also reiterated the commitment to work together for a better and sustainable future with mutual respect."

The joint statement issued after the meeting stated the SCO country opposed the unjust trade restrictions and termed these a violation of the rules of the World Trade Organisation.

According to the statement, the meeting stressed the need for the formation of a data bank for investment projects, and it also appreciated China for its initiative of Belt and Road.