On November 15-16, 2007, the Shanghai Institute of International Studies (SHIMI) in Shanghai (China) hosted the international scientific conference "The Situation in Central Asia and the SCO". The conference was attended by researchers and diplomats from China, Russia and Central Asian countries. About 20 people made presentations. A wide range of issues related to relations between the organization and NATO, strengthening cooperation and trust within the SCO, the goals and policies of the United States in Central Asia, relations between the organization and observer countries, the internal situation in the SCO member states, etc. were discussed.
Opening the conference, SHIMI Director Yang Zemian said that Shanghai is closely linked with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). "This organization was created in our city. We strive for the SCO to play an increasingly important role in international relations, in strengthening security and improving the well-being of peoples. I hope that constructive ideas and recommendations will be made during the conference that will contribute to this."
Zhang Xiao (Deputy Head of the Department of the Chinese Foreign Ministry) noted that in general, the Chinese side assesses the situation in Central Asia as stable. However, this situation is negatively affected by a number of factors related to the influence of external forces that impose their own development models on Central Asian countries. According to Zhang Xiao, the SCO has established itself as an effective mechanism for cooperation. It makes a great contribution to strengthening international security.
Acad. V. S. Myasnikov (IB RAS) believes that liberal values hardly take root in the Confucian civilization zone. The SCO has demonstrated its ability to contribute to the development of its member countries: transforming society, improving the living conditions of the poor, creating opportunities for everyone to succeed and access health care and education. V. S. Myasni ...
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