Lukashenko sets key priorities for SCO as part of new global order

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is becoming an integral part of a new international order, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said during his speech at the SCO summit in Tianjin, China, BelTA has learned.  In this context, the president outlined key issues concerning the SCO's activities that, in the view of Belarus, require increased attention.

On creating mechanisms for indivisible security in Eurasia

The head of state reminded attendees of Belarus’ proposal to develop the Eurasian Charter of Diversity and Multipolarity in the 21st Century, viewing the SCO as a primary platform for discussing this initiative.

Belarus also welcomes efforts to establish the Universal SCO Center for Countering Security Challenges and Threats, and the Anti-Drug Center. “We must do everything possible to ensure these structures become operational as soon as possible,” the president stated.

On trade facilitation

Aleksandr Lukashenko praised the revitalization of dialogue in this area, which will help reduce barriers, increase trade volume, and boost cross-border investments.“Today, trade between SCO countries has already exceeded $2 trillion, and this figure is not the limit. Settlements in national currencies, the creation of joint funds, investments in the digital economy, and green technologies will all be at the forefront of our attention,” the Belarusian leader stressed.

On the need for an independent financial mechanism

“In the current geopolitical climate, where unilateral sanctions are destabilizing factors, the need for an independent financial mechanism within the SCO is evident. There is a need for a mechanism capable of funding cross-border projects, mitigating the impact of sanctions, promoting the use of national currencies in trade, and supporting the development of key areas of cooperation, from logistics and energy to digital transformation and artificial intelligence,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said. He expressed Belarus' support for the idea of establishing an SCO Development Bank, which would enhance the resilience of economic ties and represent an important step toward the region's economic sovereignty. “However, we all understand that the benefits of this bank will only be realized if it can operate effectively in each of the “Shanghai family” countries,” the president said.

On coordinating efforts with EAEU in transport and logistics

Aleksandr Lukashenko highlighted that geopolitical upheavals are disrupting international logistics chains. Therefore, Belarus believes it is important for the SCO and the EAEU countries to coordinate efforts in developing transport and logistics infrastructure for transport corridors, utilizing digital technologies and intelligent systems in the transportation sector. “This will strengthen the connectivity of the SCO and Eurasian Economic Union member states, reduce transaction costs for businesses, and expand Central Asian countries' access to European and Chinese markets. Ultimately, it will enhance the resilience and security of supply chains under external pressure,” the Belarusian leader noted.

On developing unified scientific and innovation space

Belarus believes it is critically important to establish common scientific and innovation space within the SCO, Aleksandr Lukashenko stressed.  He noted that mechanisms already exist, from working groups to the SCO Interbank Association, that can facilitate funding for joint research and development (R&D) projects and technological startups. This is particularly relevant as innovations become a key factor in sustainable growth.  “Belarus is open to sharing experiences and implementing joint projects in agriculture, healthcare, IT, and applied sciences,” the president said.

On humanitarian dimension of cooperation

“We attach great importance to strengthening ties between SCO countries in education, science, and culture. The humanitarian dimension of the SCO must be filled with concrete content and new opportunities,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.  He suggested developing a comprehensive regional educational platform, potentially based on the SCO University. This platform would aim to cultivate a generation of specialists, individuals who know each other and respect the cultural nuances and achievements of partner countries. “In other words, a kind of ‘people's diplomats’ who will help foster an atmosphere of trust at the interpersonal level, shaped by the leaders of the Shanghai family,” the president added.