Address by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the Meeting in the “SCO Plus” Format

Uzbekistan

Distinguished Sadyr Nurgozhoevich! Distinguished Heads of State and Delegations! I sincerely thank the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, distinguished Sadyr Nurgozhoevich Japarov, for the initiative to convene today’s “SCO Plus” meeting.

Address by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the Meeting in the “SCO Plus” Format
Today, we are discussing the role of the United Nations in shaping a just world order.

Amid the changes taking place in the world, it is important to determine how states and regional organizations can help global institutions more effectively fulfill their universal mission.

The United Nations is called upon to maintain its central and coordinating role, while regional structures should complement its efforts.

First and foremost, by facilitating the practical implementation of common principles and decisions, taking into account local conditions, needs and capabilities.

It is precisely this combination that we see as the foundation of viable multilateralism.

The new world order should not only reflect the global balance of power in the system of international relations, but also contribute to the fair resolution of regional problems.

In this context, the “SCO Plus” format acquires a particularly profound significance that goes beyond merely an expanded meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

This platform is capable of bringing together states, regions and organizations around a common agenda.

It can and should serve as a venue for dialogue on aligning various initiatives and shaping the architecture of global governance.

Distinguished Participants of the Meeting!

Uzbekistan is committed to developing open and mutually beneficial cooperation across the Eurasian space.

For us, connectivity is a matter of strategic autonomy and resilience.

We advocate for a form of multipolarity that does not create new dividing lines, but rather expands the space of opportunities, where regional projects and initiatives do not compete with one another, but effectively complement each other.

Distinguished Heads of Delegations!

I would like to put forward a number of proposals.

First of all, I consider it important to develop the “SCO Plus” format as a platform for interregional dialogue.

I propose focusing on such specific areas as sustainable growth, the introduction of advanced technologies, climate adaptation, human capital development, accessible education and support for young people.

We need to exchange experience more broadly, coordinate our approaches and jointly advance solutions within the framework of the United Nations.

The “SCO Plus” format could well serve as a platform for establishing a Partnership Network of Regional Organizations.

The key task is to establish regular working contacts between their secretariats and relevant bodies for the joint implementation of projects in our macro-region.

Along with this, we should make more active use of the potential of regional organizations to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Many states face similar challenges. However, solutions successfully applied in one region often remain unknown in another.

As a mechanism for exchanging experience, I propose establishing an Open Bank of Interregional Projects and Technologies in the fields of natural resource management, “green” energy, digital services and healthcare.

Of particular importance is the expansion of broad economic cooperation in our macro-region.

Businesses everywhere should see tangible results in the form of simplified market access procedures, the launch of cross-border corridors and increased inflows of foreign direct investment.

With a focus on such specific performance indicators, I propose transforming the “SCO Invest” Forum into a permanent platform.

Distinguished Colleagues!

Over the past quarter of a century, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization has accumulated unique experience in cooperation among states with different political systems, cultural traditions and views on international processes.

To further develop this broad exchange, I propose establishing a permanent “SCO Plus” Forum of Cultures and Civilizations.

We are ready to host this event jointly with interested United Nations entities in Khiva, one of the most ancient centers of science and enlightenment.

Dear Friends!

Allow me to emphasize once again that we see the “SCO Plus” format as a platform that meets the demands of our time. The more points of convergence there are among countries and regions, the stronger the foundation for stability and mutual trust.

Uzbekistan stands ready to continue making a significant practical contribution to strengthening our common well-being and developing multilateral partnership.

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