The 23rd meeting of Shanghai Cooperation Organization Council of Heads of Government (SCO CHG) that took place in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, on October 15-16 has resulted in adoption of the Joint Communique.     

The Heads of Delegation noted that the Member States advocate respect for the right of peoples to independently and democratically choose their political, social and economic development, emphasizing that the principles of mutual respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of States, equality, mutual benefit, non-interference in internal affairs, non-use of force or threat of use of force are the basis for the sustainable development of international relations.  They reaffirm the commitment to the peaceful settlement of differences and disputes between countries through dialogue and consultations.

The Heads of Delegation noted the tectonic shifts in the global economy, characterized by rapid advancements and interconnectivity in the areas of information technology, digitalization, artificial intelligence, virtual/digital assets, e-commerce, etc.  They expressed concern over the exacerbation of various challenges that have led to reduced investment flows, disrupted supply chains and uncertainty in global financial markets as a result of protectionist measures and other impediments to international trade.

The Heads of Delegation consider it important to continue joint efforts to counter protectionist trade measures that are contrary to WTO rules and regulations, as well as to continue working on strengthening the rules-based WTO, non-discriminatory, open, equitable, inclusive and transparent multilateral trading system, based on the WTO.

They also oppose protectionist actions, unilateral sanctions and trade restrictions that undermine the multilateral trading system and impede global sustainable development.

The heads of delegations emphasized that the unilateral application of sanctions is incompatible with the principles of international law and has a negative impact on third countries and international economic relations.

They noted the proposal to create a Greater Eurasian Partnership with the participation of the SCO, Eurasian Economic Union, Association of Southeast Asian Nations, as well as other interested states and multilateral associations.

The heads of delegations noted the importance of implementing the SCO Economic Development Strategy for the period up to 2030 and the Program of Multilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation of the SCO member states.  

The heads of delegations stressed the importance of deepening cooperation in the field of information security, the relevance of the "digital divide" issue and advocated for exploring the creation of a mechanism for cross-border data exchange, taking into account the national legislations of countries, the introduction of digital technologies in the economic and social spheres, the development of e-government, electronic payment systems, e-commerce and other areas of digital business.

They noted the positive dynamics in the development of customs cooperation, in particular on projects aimed at simplifying, securing and strengthening logistics chains in the SCO space, improving customs control and suppressing smuggling channels.

The heads of delegations noted that the development of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises is important to stimulate economic growth and create jobs.  

The heads of delegations welcomed the establishment of the SCO Investors Association and instructed the authorized bodies of the SCO Member States to take measures to establish the practical work of this cooperation mechanism.