Putin: SCO is firmly committed to building truly just and multipolar world order
The SCO plays a more significant role in international affairs, ensuring sustainable economic growth – as stated by Russian President Vladimir Putin during a meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation, which is being held in the format of a videoconference
In particular, Vladimir Putin drew attention to the fact that the SCO is firmly committed to the formation of a truly just multipolar world order, “A world order based on international law, on the universally recognised principles of mutually respectful co-operation of sovereign states with the central, co-ordinating role of the UN. The main thing is that it is on such a constructive basis that all the work of the SCO is built. Our organisation is playing an increasingly significant role in international affairs, making a real contribution to maintaining peace and stability, ensuring sustainable economic growth of the participating states, and strengthening ties between peoples. This is especially significant in the current conditions, when geopolitical contradictions are becoming more acute, and the degradation of the international security system continues.”
At the same time, the President of Russia underlined that the risks of a global economic and financial crisis are rising against the backdrop of uncontrolled accumulation of debts in developed countries, social stratification and growing poverty around the world, as well as deteriorating food security, “All these problems, each of which is complex in its own way, together lead to a noticeable increase in conflict potential. Russia feels all this directly on itself...”
In his speech, Vladimir Putin touched upon the issue of using national currencies in mutual settlements. The Russian leader cited the following figures: last year, the share of the Russian Rouble in export transactions between Russia and the SCO countries exceeded 40 percent.
“It’s important to take co-ordinated measures to remove barriers, establish the necessary payment infrastructure, and create an independent financial system. The implementation of the SCO Economic Development Strategy until 2030 will contribute to further strengthening of regional integration... The authority and influence of the SCO continues to grow. Many states and international organisations are striving to establish an equal dialogue with the SCO and are considering the possibility of joining the work. They trust us, they want to be friends and liaise with us,” Vladimir Putin noted.
He also stressed that Russia is in favour of Belarus joining the SCO as soon as possible, “Russia stands for the speedy completion of the processes of accession to the SCO of the Republic of Belarus. The membership of Belarus, which is a strategic partner and closest ally of Russia, will have a positive impact on the activities of the association.”
