SCO member states hold cyber anti-terrorism exercise in Xinjiang

Delegations from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states took part in a joint cyber anti-terrorism exercise held in Urumqi, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China Media Group reported on Thursday.

The Tianshan-2026 exercise focused on the evolving characteristics of terrorism, including its globalization, digitalization and use of advanced technologies. It simulated scenarios in which terrorist, separatist and extremist forces use the internet to carry out disruptive activities.

During the drill, participants practiced responding to a simulated case involving an international terrorist organization that used online platforms to spread terrorist, separatist and extremist ideologies, recruit members and plan attacks in SCO member states.

The participating teams worked closely together to identify online security risks, track suspicious targets and provide support for offline law enforcement operations.

Designed around real-world operational needs, the exercise featured multiple training scenarios and enabled participants to share experience, improve coordination, strengthen mutual trust and enhance cooperation in combating cyber terrorism.

Delegations from SCO member states spoke highly of China's organization of the drill. 

Kishan Singh, deputy director of the Executive Committee of the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure, said the exercise was well-organized and effective, helping enhance member states' ability to jointly respond to cyber terrorism threats.

An official from Chinese Ministry of Public Security said China will use the exercise as an opportunity to deepen practical cooperation among SCO members in combating cyber terrorism, continue cracking down on online terrorist activities and jointly safeguard regional security and stability.