BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, September 1. Uzbekistan’s
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has called for expanding the role of
the Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s “SCO Plus” format as a
platform for interregional cooperation on economic development,
technology, climate adaptation and global governance, Trend's special
correspondent reports.
Mirziyoyev made the remarks during a SCO Plus meeting focused on
the role of the United Nations in shaping a fair international
order. The meeting brought together leaders and senior
representatives from SCO member states, observer countries,
dialogue partners and international organizations, including UN
Secretary-General António Guterres.
Mirziyoyev said the UN should retain its central coordinating
role, while regional organizations could complement its work by
adapting common principles and decisions to regional conditions and
priorities.
“It is important to determine how states and regional
associations can help global institutions more effectively fulfill
their universal mission,” Mirziyoyev said.
He proposed using the SCO Plus format to promote cooperation in
sustainable growth, advanced technologies, climate adaptation,
human capital, accessible education and youth development.
Uzbekistan also proposed establishing a Partnership Network of
Regional Organizations under the SCO Plus framework to facilitate
the exchange of experience and coordinate approaches to issues
addressed through the UN.
Another proposal calls for an Open Bank of Interregional
Projects and Technologies covering natural resource management,
green energy, digital services and healthcare.
Economic cooperation was also a major focus. Mirziyoyev called
for stronger practical results for businesses, including easier
market access, cross-border transport corridors and greater foreign
direct investment.
“Business should see real results everywhere — through
simplified market-access procedures, the launch of cross-border
corridors and an inflow of direct investment,” he said.
In this context, Uzbekistan proposed turning the SCO Invest
forum into a permanent platform for investment cooperation.
Furthermore, Mirziyoyev urged establishing a permanent SCO Plus
Forum of Cultures and Civilizations, with Khiva proposed as the
venue for the first event.
The initiatives reflect Uzbekistan’s effort to position the SCO
Plus format as a broader platform connecting regional
organizations, economies and institutions rather than limiting
cooperation to traditional security issues. By focusing on
investment, technology, connectivity and sustainable development,
Tashkent is seeking to translate the format’s political dialogue
into practical regional projects.
