The Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, Nurlan Yermekbayev, says the organization's circle of friends continues to expand. Yermekbayev made the remarks at a reception marking his inauguration on Friday in Beijing. He added that since the establishment of the SCO, member states have always adhered to the "Shanghai Spirit" of mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diverse civilizations, while seeking common development. He said he would strive to contribute to the development of the organization and the well-being of the SCO family during his three-year term. After the Astana Summit in July last year, China officially took over the rotating presidency of the organization for 2024-2025 and Yermekbayev was appointed as the Secretary-General. Earlier our reporter You Yang spoke with the Secretary-General.
YOU YANG CGTN Reporter "You have mentioned that this year marks a new stage of the development of the SCO and you have also said that this year the organization is planning to hold over 200 activities. Tell us more about that."
NURLAN YERMEKBAYEV Secretary-General of Shanghai Cooperation Organization "The chairmanship of China in SCO is very helpful. We have a big plan of actions, including more than 200 events. We hope it's going to be a very interesting year."