SCO Cooperation: Member countries vow to enhance security ties

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02:04

The 13th meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Security Council Secretaries wrapped up in Beijing on Tuesday. The primary task of the meeting was to make political and security preparations for the Qingdao summit in June. It also discussed how to further enhance regional stability and security. Our reporter Zou Yun has the story.

It is the first meeting of its kind after Pakistan and India became SCO members.

Participants exchanged in-depth views on issues including the regional security situation of the SCO, cooperation in fighting the "three evil forces" of terrorism, separatism and extremism, as well as guaranteeing international information safety.

Zhao Kezhi, Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Public Security said at the joint press conference that officials agreed on a wide range of topics, among them the need to boost security cooperation.

ZHAO KEZHI CHINESE STATE COUNCILOR "With India and Pakistan joining the SCO, we see an expanded space for cooperation in various areas. With complex and profound changes underway in the regional security landscape, the organization faces heavier responsibilities."

The meetings of SCO National Security Council Secretaries, first held in 2004, are used to coordinate security efforts across the region. The annual gathering has emerged as one of the most important platforms for member countries to conduct security talks, injecting new impetus into regional cooperation.

RASHID ALIMOV SCO SECRETARY GENERAL "The meeting has taken SCO meetings to a new level. All parties will conduct joint actions, fight terrorism and extremism together, tackle challenges, both old and new, in Eurasia."

ZOU YUN BEIJING "Maintaining regional security and stability has always been the priority among SCO member countries. During the first summit after expansion, the members states are ready to work out increasing mutual political support, and achieving sustainable peace. ZY, CGTN, BJ.