The 19th annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit took place in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic on 13-14 June 2019. This gathering saw heads of Member States review the implementation of the results of the Qingdao Summit, as well as discussing the priority goals for SCO development within the current global political and economic context. A key outcome of the event was the adoption of the Bishkek Declaration by the Member States.
The Bishkek Declaration: An Overview
Not to be confused with a previous “Bishkek Declaration” adopted by 12 countries in 2013, focusing on the conservation and protection of Snow Leopards, this recent declaration crafted at the SCO summit addresses a wider range of topics. The breadth of the matters discussed in the Bishkek Declaration spanned from security concerns to economic cooperation and space usage, among others.
Security Matters in the Bishkek Declaration
The Member States expressed a resolute condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and urged for stronger global cooperation against terrorism. The declaration advocates an approach in line with the UN Charter and international law principles, devoid of politicisation and double standards, while upholding every state’s sovereignty and independence.
Other security-related imperatives included the need for a protocol on security guarantees to the Central Asian Nuclear-Weapons-Free Zone Treaty, honouring the Convention on curbing bioweapon production, and supporting Afghanistan’s peace restoration and sustained development efforts.
Economic Cooperation Underlined in the Declaration
From trade to investment, finance to transport, energy to agriculture, the declaration proposed an expansion and deepening of cooperation in various sectors. There is a clear emphasis on increasing the use of national currencies in mutual financial transactions and settlements, a move that could potentially redefine future economic landscapes of SCO nations.
The Declaration also addresses the need for promoting technology parks and business incubators in the region, to support youth startup projects and improve the regional business climate.
Space and Narcotic Drug Threats
The peaceful use of outer space and the need to keep it weapon-free found a place in the declaration. The member states recognised the urgent need to address the threat posed by narcotic drugs, including their illegal cultivation, circulation, and sales.
Table of Key Facts
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
| 19th annual SCO summit | Held on 13-14 June 2019 in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic |
| Outcome of the summit | Adoption of the Bishkek Declaration by Member States |
| The next presidency | Russia is set to take over the presidency of the SCO |
| Next Summit | In 2020, the Russian Federation will host the regular SCO Heads of State Council Meeting |
Upcoming Leadership Transition
As the rotating leadership system of the SCO dictates, the baton of the presidency will be passed to Russia next. Consequently, Russia will be hosting the upcoming regular SCO Heads of State Council Meeting in 2020.
