«The SCO member states possess significant production, technological, resource, financial and human capabilities. Today the SCO is around half the planet’s population, a third of global GDP and 20% of world trade. But behind global figures it is important to see concrete countries, not abstract values,» Aleksandr Turchin said. «It is important to identify practical steps for the consistent expansion of mutual trade, the diversification of commodity flows, the reduction of trade barriers, countering unlawful unilateral coercive measures and simplifying trade procedures.»

He drew attention to the fact that the system of international relations is undergoing major changes. Familiar models of cooperation and trade are being transformed. Interaction along individual tracks is being complicated by numerous barriers, unlawfully imposed restrictive measures and the vulnerability of established logistics and technological flows. In such circumstances, universal efforts are extremely important to ensure stable economic growth, reduce risks and offset restrictions, strengthen transport connectivity, and ensure the resilience of production, trade and logistics chains.

«It is important to work on reducing barriers not only within the SCO, but in a broader context. This is possible through the implementation of the concept of ‘integration of integrations’ proposed by the president of Belarus,» the prime minister noted.