The dynamically developing world is currently going through a period of major changes and reconfiguration; the geopolitical landscape is becoming diversified and multipolar. Despite the fact that ties between countries are becoming closer, the factors of instability and uncertainty are increasing, economic globalisation is confronted with the expansion of unilateral protectionist policies and other challenges in international trade; the risks associated with the aggravation of conflicts in a number of regions, terrorism, drug trafficking and organised crime, epidemics of infectious diseases, and climate change are also on the rise. Today, SCO sets an example of close and fruitful cooperation in building a more equitable and balanced world order.
The Member States of SCO stated that they were committed to strict compliance with the goals and principles of the UN Charter, as well as to strengthening the key role of the UN Security Council as the main body responsible for maintaining international peace and security. The importance of complying with the provisions of the Treaty on Good-Neighbourly Relations, Friendship and Cooperation between the Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, as well as with the Chemical Weapons Convention and the Non-Proliferation Treaty, was stressed once again. The Member States strongly condemned all forms of terrorism, separatism and extremism. It was also noted that interference in the domestic affairs of other states under the pretence of combatting terrorism and extremism was unacceptable. The Member States expressed concern about the growing threat from increased production, trade and abuse of drugs, as well as from corruption in all its forms and manifestations.
The Declaration stresses the intention of the Member States to improve the architecture of global economic governance and to develop trade, economic and investment cooperation, as well as to maintain the reputation and efficiency of the WTO rules and the stipulations of the SCO Charter. The Member States noted the importance of developing the services industry and trade, supporting microbusiness, as well as small and medium-sized business and stimulating e-trade within the SCO. Further strengthening practical cooperation in banking and finance, transportation, and environmental protection was identified as one of the key goals.
The Member States agreed to continue their productive bilateral and multilateral cooperation in culture, education, science, technology, healthcare, tourism, crafts, environmental protection, youth exchanges, the media, and sport for the sake of mutual enrichment and closer relations between people. In conclusion, the Member States praised the results of China’s SCO Presidency in 2017–2018 which had contributed to promoting mutual trust and mutual understanding.
