The resolution of 19 July is insignificant. The UNCIP Resolution of 13 August is valuable, Jamil Maqsood.
The Muslim Conference Working Committee passed a Resolution favouring an independent Jammu and Kashmir. Muslim Conference won Muslim seats because the National Conference boycotted elections.
Text of my speech delivered at a Conference in New Delhi in November 2000, which foot soldiers did not like.
Text of a speech made by Shabir Choudhry, President Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front UK & Europe, in the conference jointly organised by International Centre for Peace Initiatives, Delhi; Chr. Mitchelson Institution, Oslo; and Institute of Regional Studies,
Islamabad, held in New Delhi on 25/6 November 2000.
Theme of the Conference: Next steps in Jammu and Kashmir -
Give Peace A Chance".
Session title: "Inter-Regional Factors in J & K's pluralistic society".
Introduction
Before we begin to discuss and understand the Kashmir dispute and peace, we must establish what we mean by Kashmir. When we talk of Kashmir, do we mean a strip of land that is 84 miles long and 27 miles wide; or we mean the State of Jammu and Kashmir which existed on 15 August 1947.
The fact that the present struggle started in the Kashmir Valley does not mean that only this area is disputed. As the JKLF and I see it, the entire State of Jammu and Kashmir is disputed; and our aim is the unification and independence of the State.
When we talk of the State we mean the Kashmir Valley, Jammu, Ladakh on this side of the Line of Control, and areas known as Azad Kashmir and Gilgit and Baltistan on the other side of the LOC. At this stage I would like to make it clear that JKLF Chairman
is honourable Yasin Malik, and he is in a better position to elaborate on this and explain the JKLF ideology and future strategy.
The fact that the present militant struggle started on the Indian side of the LOC does not make these areas more disputed than the areas on the Pakistani side of the LOC.
And the fact that there is no visible unrest on the Pakistani side of the LOC does not mean that the people of these areas are happy with the current situation. It must be clear to all concerned that all these areas are disputed and for peace and stability of Kashmir and that of South Asia, it is imperative that a mechanism is worked out
that people of Kashmir could determine their future.
If we are serious and sincere in finding a solution acceptable to all three parties to the dispute then we have to abandon rhetoric and emotional attitude. We have to abandon slogans of "Atoot Ang" and "Sha - Rag", and adopt a pragmatic attitude by taking the ground realities into consideration. In the words of Pundit Jawarhalal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India:
"Kashmir has been wrongly looked upon as a prize for India or Pakistan. People seem to forget that Kashmir is not a commodity for sale or to be bartered. It has an individual existence and its people must be the final arbiters of their future." (Report to All Indian Congress Committee on 6th July 1951).
Similarly, Mohammed Ali Jinnah in an interview on 17 June 1947, said:
"After the lapse of paramountcy the Indian States would be constitutionally and legally Sovereign States and free to adopt for themselves any course they wished. It is open to the States to join the Hindustan Constitutional Assembly or to decide to remain
independent. In my opinion they are free to remain independent if they so desire."
These statements of two great leaders show a legal and realistic approach to the Kashmir dispute, an approach, that is not clouded by emotions. But it is unfortunate to note that the Kashmir dispute, as we see it today, is a direct result of competing national interests and designs of both India and Pakistan. In other words, we Kashmiris are suffering because both countries are at a state of war and competing against each other. This competition and animosity have continued throughout these years.
Whereas other countries in the world have moved on both India and Pakistan are still in a state of war. As a result, apart from the Pakistani and the Indian people, we Kashmiris are also suffering on both sides of the divide. We are still forcibly divided, tortured, uprooted and deprived of our basic human rights. May be we (the people of Indian Sub-Continent) have reached that stage where it would be suicidal to continue this situation.
For the sake of peace and stability in South Asia we have to leave the past, with all its tragic events, behind us and make a new start. Up till now Kashmir has been a source of competition and rivalry between India and Pakistan, and Kashmir could become a bridge of friendship, a source of peace, stability and inspiration.
Problems faced by people
Many people say the Kashmir dispute is easy to resolve. In their view all that is needed is the withdrawal of the Indian forces from Kashmir. This view is unrealistic and naïve. Much more than that is required, if we are serious about resolving the dispute. It is true the United Nations Resolutions ask India to withdraw 'bulk' of her forces from Kashmir; but it is also true that the same Resolution asks Pakistan to withdraw her forces first. We know that demilitarisation, as asked by the Resolution, could not take place because of differences between India and Pakistan. As a result of this failure our motherland, Kashmir, is forcibly divided with troops of India and Pakistan facing each other on LOC.
Apart from that we have to look at regional, cultural and religious issues. It must be noted that the people of Kashmir, despite recent endeavours to communalise the Kashmiri politics, by and large, see their nation as a multi-cultural and multi religious- one with a strong tradition of mutual co-existence.
Kashmir has its own proud history with diverse and rich cultures and unique sense of toleration and brotherhood. In stark contrast to the religious intolerance and violence found in other places of the Indian Sub - Continent, Kashmir became a land of mutual
acceptance and tolerance. Both India and Pakistan need to learn to respect this, and must not try to alter this by communalising the issues. In fact, they can learn lessons from the Kashmiri culture of co-existence, toleration and respect for each other's religion and culture.
Kashmiri people also have a strong tradition of decentralised internal political rule. This decentralised system of politics helped each region to develop its own culture and traditions; and also helped to develop individual agricultural and economic systems.
Previous foreign rules did not too much disrupt the internal geographical, cultural, and economic interconnections which have existed for centuries. But the occupation and the forced division since 1947 has greatly affected the Kashmiri way of life, and completely alienated the people from each other. India occupies the Kashmir Valley, Ladakh, and Jammu regions.
While Pakistan occupies areas known as "Azad Kashmir", and Gilgit-Baltistan (approximately 32,000 square miles), China also occupies two portions of the Kashmiri land, Aksai Chin in Ladakh, and a portion given to China by Pakistan from Gilgit-Baltistan This forced division controlled by a large concentration of troops has absolutely barricaded the social, economic, and cultural relations that existed through the internal routes for thousands of years.
Apart from disrupting economic and social interaction between people of different regions, the effect of the "Line of Control" has been so devastating that families living just on opposite sides of the same little valley has been unable to see each other for more than 53 years.
The only chance these unfortunate people have is to make a difficult and expensive trip to the capital of either India or Pakistan and then apply for a visa to the other occupying country. If one is fortunate enough to make it to the other side of the dividing line, he or she must then make an equally difficult trip back home. This is
time consuming, expensive and exhausting, as the journey is more than a thousand miles. Worse still when these people go from one place to the other, they are treated badly and often with suspicion.
More than likely a poor visitor will be branded as either an "Indian agent" or "Pakistani agent". They will have to live with the burden of this allegation for the rest of his life.
A re-unified and independent Kashmir would re-open the internal routes and unite all the inhabitants of the divided country. This would end the isolation of places like Ladakh and Gilgit and Baltistan, and this interaction between different communities would help in nation building.
It is deemed proper and acceptable that apart from businessmen and ordinary people, journalists, diplomats, lawyers etc from India and Pakistan could visit each other's country without too many problems, but how unfortunate that poor Kashmiris cannot. Many legal and bureaucratic hurdles are created for them, and if somehow they manage to get relevant travel documents, they are likely to be accused of being a "spy" of either one country or the other.
Even though I live in London and have a 30 years track record of working for a united and independent Jammu and Kashmir, I know what I had to go through to come to Delhi to attend this conference. I don't know what the outcome of this Conference would be, but I know for sure that I will have to face a barrage of criticism and baseless allegations for the "crime" of attending this conference. But my response to all this is who cares. I know what I am doing, and what is right for my organisation and country. We have to adopt a new strategy and move forward, and in doing so we will have to face many challenges, and not be intimidated by those who benefit from the status- quo.
The way forward
It should be clear from the above that the people of Kashmir no matter which side of the LOC they are living in are facing huge problems. On the Indian side of LOC their problems are different because of the armed struggle and large-scale human rights violations. The armed struggle and subsequent excessive actions by the armed forces have greatly affected the social fabrics of the Kashmiri civil society.
All sections of the Kashmiri community have suffered because of this, of course, some have suffered more than others - I mean Muslim members of the Kashmiri community have suffered more; but the aim of this paper is not to go into details of these sufferings, and make any comparison.
Whether the sufferers are Muslims or Hindus they are all Kashmiris and sons and daughters of the soil. And their suffering is regrettable; it is a loss to the Kashmiri nation. Whereas I feel sorry for the families of those who have lost their loved ones, we have to think of those who are still alive; and who could be saved.
It is becoming increasingly clear that there could be no military solution to the Kashmir conflict. No party is in a position to dictate terms militarily. The cost of any military expedition, especially between India and Pakistan with nuclear capability on both sides, would be disastrous for not only Kashmiris but all people of South Asia.
Similarly, the UN resolutions, whatever their worth, have failed to provide any solution acceptable to all parties to the dispute. Moreover, there was no Kashmiri input into these resolutions. Both Indian and Pakistani delegates at the UN only represented their national interests, with little care or concern for the people of Kashmir. In any case a series of Agreements such as Tashkent, Shimla, and Lahore Declaration have greatly influenced the position of UN resolutions.
UN resolutions and all these Agreements and Declarations accept that the State of Jammu and Kashmir is disputed, and we could use this as a starting point and start trilateral talks to resolve the issue. Before we reach that stage there has to be inter – Kashmir dialogue- a dialogue between various regions and communities to build some consensus.
We have to accept that due to forced division and other factors there is some mistrust and misunderstandings between different Kashmiri communities. We have to work out a strategy for rehabilitation of all those who have been uprooted because of this struggle, this includes Muslims, Pandits and other Kashmiri minorities.
It must be clear to all that the Kashmir issue is not a territorial dispute between India and Pakistan; and nor is it a religious issue, or fight of one religion against the other. The dispute is about the Kashmiri peoples unfettered right of self-determination. Our
struggle is for unification and independence of the State, we don't want to be part of any other country; nor are we doing this on behest of anyone else. Here it would be appropriate to quote JKLF Chairman, Mr Yasin Malik, who responded to a question in an interview:
'No. It is not a religious issue. We want a total reunification of the whole of Jammu and Kashmir. It is not a religious issue. We are not demanding the right of self-determination on the basis of religion. When we speak about the self-determination of the people of Kashmir, we say that the right of self- determination must be given
to 12 million people of the united Jammu and Kashmir.’
Kashmir has seen enough suffering. The Kashmiri people also have the right to live peacefully, and live with honour and dignity. But we don't want peace at any cost. We want India and Pakistan to realise that they have also suffered because of the Kashmir
dispute, and they will continue to suffer if they don't resolve the issue according to the wishes of the Kashmir people. Peace has to come to South Asia. We have to move forward and become a political and economic force; and Kashmir could provide the
necessary ingredient to move forward.
If we want to avoid a permanent division of Jammu and Kashmir, then we have to win the confidence of each other. And Kashmiri Muslims being a dominant political force and being in majority have to ensure other Kashmiri minorities that it is safe for them to live in Kashmir, and that their rights would be protected by law. We have to ensure each other that for peace, stability and prosperity of the Kashmiri people we have to live together in peace and harmony.
Displaying the Pak flag in AJK is illegal. India’s presence in JK is not unlawful. Why no research on Jinnah is allowed?
Jamil Maqsood analyses the legal status of Pakistan and India in Jammu and Kashmir. In this digital age, you can’t fool people. https://youtu.be/FOsCd9jniJg
Was the Muslim Conference responsible for blocking the Kohala Road to Pakistan?
Zahid Mughal analyses the peaceful struggle for the people's basic rights of Azad Kashmir, and how some people instigated trouble. https://youtu.be/53dhRDCZ-04
Congratulations to the people of AJK, and the leaders of Awami Action Committee. The struggle must continue.
Shaukat Kashmiri analyses the prevailing situation of Azad Kashmir and Syria. Fundamental rights of people must be protected.
Awami Action Committee has taken a big decision. Peaceful struggle must continue. No to violence.
Jamil Maqsood analyses the ongoing struggle in Azad Kashmir and caution the authorities not to use force.
Why should JK not join Pakistan, advice of a Pakistani. The majority want independent JK.
Thank Allah, we are not Pakistanis, says a man from the Valley of Kashmir. Pakistan has nothing to offer to us.
A country was established for the army. Khan wants the Army Chief’s lap. Another call is possible.
Tanveer Zaman Khan analyses Pakistan’s current complex situation. PTI underestimate the strength of the State.
Final call and a final nail in the coffin of PTI. Dr Shabir Choudhry
This protest and the game played by Bushra Bibi and Gandapoor have ensured that Imran will not come out of prison.
Authentic sources confirm that after praying for the funeral of soldiers who were killed by the PTI ‘peaceful protestors’, the Army Chief said, ‘I want Islamabad to be cleared off these people before the dead bodies of my sons reach their homes.’
The establishment wanted to protect the lives of the people, especially Chief Minister Gandapoor and Madam Bushra Bibi. Dozens of Afghans were providing ‘security’ to these. The danger was that if the attack began without safeguarding these two ‘assets’, Afghans may kill them and blame the army for this. So, they secured these two by shooting at least 18 people, all the wounds were on the legs, according to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS).
Once they were rescued, Bushra Bibi tried to negotiate and to be relocated to another place, she was told that the time for that was gone now. You have only 2 options: fight or let us save your lives.
Both of them preferred to save their lives and let the other protestors face the music. Once the operation started within 20 minutes the D Chowk was cleared, and the protestors were on the run.
Chief Minister Ganadapoor and Bushra Bibi were taken in a car in which these 2 were sitting at the back seat, and two people were sitting at the front seats. They were taken via Peer Sawava Rd, over the mountains and handed to security men inside the territory of KPK. As a Chief Minister, Gandapoor enjoyed a protocol, and they were taken to Mansehra where they checked into a hotel.
After the press conference, the next day Ganadapoor, with full protocol, proceeded to Peshawar to brief his Cabinet. The whereabouts of Bushra Bibi, up till now is not known.
A reporter asked one senior member of the establishment, why did you not arrest them and charge them. With a smile, he replied, that would have enhanced their credibility. Now they are seen as deserters. END
The situation in AJK is getting out of control. Authorities must act rationally- region needs peace.
Usman Kayani analyses the aggravating situation in Azad Kashmir and Pakistan. Slogans of jihad and violence will only add to our problems.
Oxford Union Student Union resolution- Deep State is responsible for creating mess in Pakistan.
Shaukat Kashmiri analyses the dangerous situation of Pakistan and the situation of Jammu and Kashmir. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GM4G_qacR8I
POK is not a base camp. Why militancy is on the rise in Jammu? Why are there calls for Jihad?
Shaukat Kashmir explains the current situation of Jammu and Kashmir and how India and Pakistan failed to honour their pledges. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WC1KecNklkM
What policy options are available to Pakistan for the future in the context of the Kashmir cause?
All the options taken by Pakistan on JK added to our problems and suffering. Please take no more options. Just unite GB and POK.
What will India’s future strategy be for Kashmir? Statehood minus Ladakh may be restored in future.
Modi won’t come on a white horse to liberate POK or GB. We need to live in the real world. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcHFyU2MqtU
How will the India-China border dispute impact the Kashmir cause? LAC and LOC. Elections in JK.
China-India bilateral trade was 136.2 billion in 2023. Sensible leaders, despite disputes trade with each other. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uM-NKTmp2pE
Dr Shabir Choudhry explains the situation of the divided Jammu and Kashmir. Empower Action Committee.
Pakistan and India have their interests in Jammu and Kashmir. We must care for our interests. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cIA_jQKNYDw
Memorandum presented to the High Commission of Pakistan on 22 Oct 2024.
Your Excellency Dr Mohammad FaisalViews of a Pakistani politician on Azadi of Azad Kashmir. Some fools think they are azad in POK.
Our struggle is for a united and independent Jammu and Kashmir. Accession is not an option for us. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7i1T4C0TBI
SCO Summit was successful. Why no mention of Kashmir? Speech of India’s Foreign Minister. Peace and stability.
The people of Jammu and Kashmir need to change their strategies, violence and hatred are not the way forward.
Speech of the Foreign Minister of India at SCO Summit in Islamabad 2024.
India's National Statement delivered by External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar at the 23rd Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Islamabad
October 16, 2024
Your Excellency the Prime Minister of Pakistan,
Excellencies,
Namaskar! Dobrye Utro!
1. At the outset, let me congratulate Pakistan for its Presidency of the SCO Council of Heads of Government this year. India has extended its full support for a successful Presidency.
2. We meet at a difficult time in world affairs. Two major conflicts are underway, each with its own global repercussions. The Covid pandemic has left many in the developing world deeply devastated. Disruptions of various kinds – ranging from extreme climate events to supply chain uncertainties and financial volatility – are impacting growth and development. Debt is a serious concern, even as the world falls behind in achieving SDG targets. Technology holds great promise, as well as raising a new host of concerns. How should the members of the SCO respond to these challenges?
Excellencies,
3. The answers lie in the Charter of our organization. And I urge you to reflect on Article 1 that spells out the goals and tasks of the SCO. Let me summarize it for our collective consideration. The objective is to strengthen mutual trust, friendship and good neighbourliness. It is to develop multi-faceted cooperation, especially of a regional nature. It is to be a positive force in terms of balanced growth, integration and conflict prevention. The Charter was equally clear what the key challenges were. And these were primarily three, that the SCO was committed to combatting: one, terrorism; two, separatism; and three, extremism.
Excellencies,
4. If we fast-forward from the inception of the Charter to the situation today, these goals and these tasks are even more crucial. It is, therefore, essential that we have an honest conversation. If trust is lacking or cooperation inadequate, if friendship has fallen short and good neighbourliness is missing somewhere, there are surely reasons to introspect and causes to address. Equally, it is only when we reaffirm our commitment most sincerely to the Charter that we can fully realize the benefits of cooperation and integration that it envisages.
Excellencies,
5. This is not just an endeavor for our own benefit. We all realize that the world is moving towards multi-polarity. Globalization and rebalancing are realities that cannot be denied. Cumulatively, they have created many new opportunities in terms of trade, investment, connectivity, energy flows and other forms of collaboration. There is no question that our region would benefit immensely if we take this forward. Not just that, others too would draw their own inspiration and lessons from such efforts.
6. However Excellencies, to do that, cooperation must be based on mutual respect and sovereign equality. It should recognize territorial integrity and sovereignty. It must be built on genuine partnerships, not unilateral agendas. It cannot progress if we cherry-pick global practices, especially of trade and transit.
7. But most of all, our endeavours will progress only when our commitment to the Charter remains firm. It is axiomatic that development and growth requires peace and stability. And as the Charter spelt out, this means being firm and uncompromising in countering the ‘three evils’. If activities across borders are characterized by terrorism, extremism and separatism, they are hardly likely to encourage trade, energy flows, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges in parallel.
Excellencies,
8. Let us contemplate how much we all stand to gain if it was to be otherwise. Our very agenda today in Islamabad gives us a glimpse of those possibilities. Industrial cooperation can enhance competitiveness and expand labour markets. MSME collaboration has positive implications for employment. Our collective endeavours can expand resources and encourage investment flows. Business communities will profit through larger networks. Collaborative connectivity can create new efficiencies. The world of logistics, as indeed of energy, could undergo a sea change. Environmental protection and climate action are ready domains for mutually beneficial exchanges. The treatment of infectious and non-infectious diseases will benefit from accessible and affordable pharmaceutical capabilities. Whether it is health, food or energy security, we are all clearly better off working together. Indeed, even culture, education and sports are promising areas. In effect, there is so much that we can do once we are truly determined to promote that synergy.
Excellencies,
9. From an Indian perspective, our own global initiatives and national endeavours are also strongly relevant for the SCO. The International Solar Alliance promotes renewable energy. The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure prepares us for climate events. Mission LiFE advocates a sustainable life-style. Practicing Yoga and promoting millets make a difference to wellness and to environment. The Global Biofuel Alliance recognizes the task of energy transition. The International Big Cat Alliance protects our bio-diversity. At home, we have demonstrated the value of digital public infrastructure, just as we have shown the impact of women-led development.
Excellencies,
10. While we each make our contribution, the world order is more than the sum of its parts. As it changes, global institutions do need to keep pace. That is why the case for ‘reformed multilateralism’ gets stronger by the day. Comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council, both in the permanent and non-permanent categories, is essential. I remind you that we recognized in July 2024 at Astana that the credibility and effectiveness of the UN is dependent on ensuring the representation of developing countries through comprehensive reform. Similarly, in the "Pact for the Future” which was adopted at the recent UN General Assembly, our leaders have agreed to reform the Security Council, to make it more representative, inclusive, transparent, efficient, effective, democratic and accountable. The SCO must be in the lead of advocating such change, not hold back on a matter of such importance.
Excellencies,
11. It is imperative that we now renew our resolve to attain the objectives of the SCO. That means recognizing the current constraints on our cooperation and focusing on the pathway forward. It can surely happen when we develop and implement an agenda that is firmly based on an agreed mutuality of interests. To do that, it is equally essential that we abide by the do’s and don’ts so clearly articulated by the Charter. After all, the SCO represents the forces of change on whom much of the world puts such great store. Let us live up to that responsibility.
I thank you for your attention.
Joint Communique of the twenty-third Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization
On 15-16 October 2024, the twenty-third meeting of the Council of Heads of Government (Prime Ministers) of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (hereinafter referred to as the SCO or the Organization) was held in Islamabad.
It was attended by Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus R.A. Golovchenko, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of India S. Jaishankar, Minister of Industry, Mine and Trade of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Seyed Mohammad Atabak, Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan O.A.Bektenov, Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China Li Qiang, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic A.U. Zhaparov, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation M.V. Mishustin, Prime Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan Kokhir Rasulzoda and Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan A.N. Aripov.
The meeting was chaired by the Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of
Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. The meeting was attended by SCO
Secretary-General Zhang Ming, Director of the Executive Committee of the SCO
Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure R.E. Mirzaev, Chairman of the National Part
of the SCO Business Council from the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Sheikh Atif
Ikram, Chairman of the SCO Interbank Association Council M.T. Elibaev.
The meeting was attended by the Prime Minister of Mongolia L. Oyun-Erdene (SCO
Observer State) and Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Minister of
Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan R. Meredov as a guest of the presiding party,
as well as the heads of the permanent bodies of the CIS and CICA.
The heads of delegations highly appreciated the chairmanship of the Republic of
Kazakhstan in the SCO in 2023-2024 and stressed the importance of implementing
the decisions taken following the outcomes of the meeting of the Council of
Heads of State of the SCO Member States (CHS) in Astana on July 4, 2024.
The Heads of Delegation expressed their support for the People's Republic of
China as the current chair of the Organization for 2024-2025.
The Heads of Delegation noted that the Member States advocate respect for the
right of peoples to independently and democratically choose their political,
social and economic development, emphasising that the principles of mutual
respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of States,
equality, mutual benefit, non-interference in internal affairs, non-use of
force or threat of use of force are the basis for the sustainable development
of international relations. They reaffirm the commitment to the peaceful
settlement of differences and disputes between countries through dialogue and
consultations.
The Heads of Delegation reaffirmed the intention of the Member States to
promote the proposal for the adoption of a Resolution by the UN General
Assembly in connection with the SCO Initiative “On World Unity for a Just
Peace, Harmony and Development”.
Heads of Delegations, taking into account the views of Member States, confirmed
the relevance of initiatives to promote interaction in building a new type of
international relations in the spirit of mutual respect, justice, equality and
mutually beneficial cooperation, as well as the formation of a common vision of
the idea of creating a community of common destiny of mankind and the
development of dialogue on the idea of "One Earth. One Family. One
Future".
The Heads of Delegations reaffirmed that the Member States intend to further
develop cooperation in the spheres of politics and security, trade, economy,
finance and investment, and cultural and humanitarian ties in order to build a
peaceful, safe, prosperous and ecologically clean planet Earth to achieve
harmonious coexistence of man and nature.
The Heads of Delegation noted the tectonic shifts in the global economy,
characterized by rapid advancements and interconnectivity in the areas of
information technology, digitalization, artificial intelligence,
virtual/digital assets, e-commerce, etc. They expressed concern over the
exacerbation of various challenges that have led to reduced investment flows,
disrupted supply chains and uncertainty in global financial markets as a result
of protectionist measures and other impediments to international trade.
The Heads of Delegation consider it important to continue joint efforts to
counter protectionist trade measures that are contrary to WTO rules and
regulations, as well as to continue working on strengthening the rules-based
WTO, non-discriminatory, open, equitable, inclusive and transparent
multilateral trading system, based on the WTO.
They also oppose protectionist actions, unilateral sanctions and trade
restrictions that undermine the multilateral trading system and impede global
sustainable development.
The heads of delegations emphasized that the unilateral application of
sanctions is incompatible with the principles of international law and has a
negative impact on third countries and international economic relations.
The Republic of Belarus, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Republic of
Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Russian
Federation, the Republic of Tajikistan and the Republic of Uzbekistan while
reaffirming support for the People's Republic of China's One Belt, One Road
(OBOR) initiative, noted ongoing work on joint implementation of the project,
including efforts to bridge the Eurasian Economic Union and OBOR.
The Heads of Delegation stressed that the Member States consider it important
to use the potential of the countries of the region, international
organizations and multilateral associations to create in the SCO region a space
of broad, open, mutually beneficial and equal interaction in accordance with
the norms of international law, mutual respect and consideration of national
interests.
They noted the proposal to create a Greater Eurasian Partnership with the
participation of the SCO, Eurasian Economic Union, Association of Southeast
Asian Nations, as well as other interested states and multilateral
associations.
The Heads of Delegations, advocating the promotion of cooperation within the
framework of the SCO Year of Sustainable Development, considered it important
to pursue sustainable and inclusive economic growth of Member States by
optimizing the region's potential in areas such as green development, digital
economy, trade, e-commerce, finance and banking, investment, high technology,
start-ups and innovation, poverty alleviation, health care, including
traditional and folk medicine, agriculture, industry, transport, logistics
connectivity, energy, including renewable energy, communications, science and
technology, environment and climate change.
The heads of delegations, reaffirming their desire to ensure stable economic
and social development in the SCO region, noted the importance of implementing
the SCO Economic Development Strategy for the period up to 2030 and the Program
of Multilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation of the SCO member states. They
stressed the need for coordinated efforts through the mechanisms of relevant
cooperation in order to implement the respective action plans.
The heads of delegations noted the results of the Meeting of SCO Ministers responsible for foreign economic and foreign trade activities (Islamabad, 12 September 2024) and instructed to ensure the implementation of the Concept for the Establishment of the Base of Economic Preferences of the SCO Member States, the Concept of Cooperation between Trade Promotion Organizations of the SCO Member States and the Framework for Cooperation of the SCO Member States in the Development of Creative Economy.
The heads of delegations, noting the presence of significant potential and opportunities for further building up trade and economic ties, stressed the importance of implementing the Concept of Cooperation in the Development of the "New Economic Dialogue" between the SCO member states.
The heads of delegations believe it is necessary to effectively utilize the digital economy and scientific and technological innovations in order to give a new impetus to economic development and progress in the SCO space, as well as to enhance the competitiveness of the region's economy and potential. They emphasized that technology should benefit everyone.
The Heads of delegations stressed the importance of deepening cooperation in
the field of information security, the relevance of the "digital
divide" issue and advocated for exploring the creation of a mechanism for
cross-border data exchange, taking into account the national legislations of
countries, the introduction of digital technologies in the economic and social
spheres, the development of e-government, electronic payment systems,
e-commerce and other areas of digital business.
They noted the adoption by interested Member states of the Concept for the
Development of Digital Public Infrastructure for the Dissemination of Digital
Technologies among the Population (Digital Inclusion) and the Promotion of
Innovation (New Delhi, May 13, 2023).
The heads of delegations emphasized the importance of regular meetings of the
Special Working Group on Electronic Commerce and noted the proposal to convene
the next meeting in China in the first quarter of 2025 and to develop a draft
Program of Cooperation of the SCO Member States in the field of electronic
commerce.
The Heads of Delegation noted the role of standardization tools in trade
facilitation and called for the promotion of mutually beneficial and equal
interaction between the SCO Member States, as well as the exchange of
experience in these areas.
The Heads of Delegation noted the positive dynamics in the development of
customs cooperation, in particular on projects aimed at simplifying, securing
and strengthening logistics chains in the SCO space, improving customs control
and suppressing smuggling channels.
Recognizing the importance of the work of the Meeting of Industry Ministers of
the SCO Member States, the heads of delegations noted the proposals to hold the
next meeting in 2025. They believe that support for creative industries will
stimulate the competitiveness of economies and industrialization, which will
lead to the expansion of labour markets, including for the benefit of youth, a
reduction in unemployment, and sustainable growth in the SCO member
states.
The Heads of Delegation also advocated the elaboration of the proposal to
create a Data Bank of investment projects in the field of industry of the SCO
Member states and the adoption of the Regulations on the organization of
congress and exhibition events under the auspices of the Meeting of Industry
Ministers of the SCO member states.
The heads of delegations noted the positive experience of the SCO's participation as a partner organization of the INNOPROM International Industrial Exhibition (Ekaterinburg, July 8-11, 2024)
The heads of delegations noted the proposal to establish an exchange of
experience on the implementation of national industrial policy, digital
platforms, production technologies, standardization in the field of IT
solutions.
The heads of delegations noted that the development of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises is important to stimulate economic growth and create jobs. In this regard, they emphasized the need to continue practical interaction under the Memorandum of Understanding on Promoting SCO Cooperation in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (Qingdao, June 10, 2018).
The Heads of Delegations, stressing the importance of promoting a common vision of the energy future, noted the results of the Meeting of the Ministers of Energy of the SCO Member States (Astana, June 21, 2024). They emphasized the need to continue mutually beneficial cooperation in the energy sector, in particular, in order to develop cross-border energy infrastructure, strengthen energy security on the basis of the Strategy for the Development of Energy Cooperation of the SCO Member States for the period up to 2030 (Astana, July 4, 2024), and instructed to accelerate the development of a “roadmap” for its implementation.
The heads of delegations noted the proposal to prepare a comprehensive plan to stimulate investment and attract technologies in renewable energy. Taking into account the national interests of the Member States, they will continue to promote the development of a full-scale dialogue on energy issues, practical cooperation among energy producers, transit countries and energy consumers.
The heads of delegations welcomed the outcomes of the first Meeting of the
heads of Ministries and Departments of the SCO Member states in the field of
antitrust policy (Dushanbe, May 30, 2024), which made an important contribution
to strengthening cooperation in the field of antitrust regulation and combating
unfair competition in order to create a fair international economic and trade
environment.
The Heads of delegations noted the need to improve the mechanism of external
audit of the Organization by involving the supreme audit institutions of the
SCO Member States with the necessary professional competencies in this
activity. They instructed the heads of the Supreme Audit Institutions to
consider this issue at the next relevant meeting.
The heads of delegations welcomed the establishment of the SCO Investors
Association and instructed the authorized bodies of the SCO Member States to
take measures to establish the practical work of this cooperation mechanism.
They noted the results of the meeting of the Special Working Group on
Investment Promotion of the SCO Member States(Tehran, February 20-22, 2024),
co-chaired by the Republic of Tajikistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, as
well as the proposal to develop a set of measures to stimulate mutual
investments.
The heads of delegations expressed confidence that the activities of these mechanisms will give a new impetus to cooperation within the SCO in the investment sphere.
Pursuant to the SCO CHS Decision of 4 July 2024 on the mechanisms of financial
support for project activities of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the
heads of delegations instructed the authorized Ministries and Departments of
the Member States to intensify consultations on the establishment of the SCO
Development Bank, the SCO Development Fund (Special Account) and, in the format
of the interested parties, the SCO Investment Fund.
The heads of delegations of the interested SCO member states, noting the
efforts to seek consensus to develop agreed recommendations for the SCO member
states, reaffirmed the need for consistent implementation of the Road Map of
the SCO Member States on gradual increase in the share of national currencies
in mutual settlements (Samarkand, September 16, 2022).
They highlighted proposals for the establishment of an independent
settlement-clearing mechanism, as well as for the convergence of payment
systems by interested member states.
The heads of delegations, stressing the important role of the SCO Business Council (BC) in the development of cooperation between the business communities of the SCO member states, noted the results of the meeting of the SCO BC Board and the SCO Business Forum (Astana, June 28, 2024).
The heads of delegations noted the
efforts of the SCO Interbank Association (IBA) in studying best practices for
implementing ESG-financing between SCO IBA member banks and the introduction of
financial innovations in order to promote sustainable and balanced growth of
national economies.
They noted the intention of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran to
join the work of the SCO IBA.
The heads of delegations consider the contribution of the BC and IBA to
practical cooperation in the interests of sustainable socio-economic
development in the SCO space to be important.
The heads of delegations noted the work of the Consortium of SCO Economic Think
Tanks, including the preparation of a report on the topic "Improving Trade
and Technological Cooperation between the SCO Member States: proposals and
Further Actions". They welcomed the accession of the Belarusian Institute
for Strategic Studies to the Consortium.
The heads of delegations, reaffirming the special role of the development of
interregional cooperation, noted the results of the Forum of the Heads of SCO
Regions (Omsk, September 17-19, 2024).
They consider the activities of these formats important for strengthening trade
and economic cooperation between the SCO Member States, studying the state and
assessing the prospects of multilateral interaction within the framework of the
Organization.
The heads of delegations noted the importance of building multilateral
cooperation in the field of official statistics for the introduction of best
statistical practices and methodological developments in order to timely
provide the Member states with official statistical information within the
framework of priority directions of trade and economic cooperation.
The heads of delegations confirmed that the member states, sharing the
international community's desire to strengthen interconnectivity, welcome
initiatives of the SCO countries in the transport sphere aimed at developing
mutually beneficial cooperation on a fair and balanced basis in accordance with
international law, the goals and principles of the UN Charter and the SCO
Charter.
They advocated further implementation of the Concept of Cooperation of the SCO
Member States on the Development of Interconnectivity and Creation of Efficient
Transport Corridors (Samarkand, September 16, 2022).
The heads of delegations noted the results of the Meeting of the Transport
Ministers of the SCO Member States(June 20, 2024, VC).
They spoke in favour of the active implementation of the Agreement between the
Governments of the SCO Member States on Establishing Favourable Conditions for
International Road Transport (Dushanbe, 12 September 2014), including regular
meetings of the relevant Joint Commission.
The heads of delegations welcomed the holding of an international, regional conference dedicated to the 10th anniversary of the signing of the above-mentioned intergovernmental agreement (Dushanbe, May 29, 2024).
They instructed relevant ministries and departments to take measures to implement previously adopted conceptual documents in the areas of decarbonization of transport, digital transformation and innovative technologies, and development of ports and logistics centres.
The Heads of Delegation stressed the need for further development of
cooperation in the field of railway transport and welcomed the holding of the
Meeting of the Heads of Railway Administrations (Railways) of the SCO Member
States in Moscow on 27-29 November 2024.
They advocated the use of innovations and the latest technologies, including
digital ones, in multimodal transportation in the railway industry.
The Heads of Delegation emphasized the importance of taking measures to develop
port, logistics and railway infrastructure, scientific and technological
innovations, the development of multi- and intermodal transport, modern
logistics centres and human resources, digitalization, and ensuring safety,
including environmental initiatives, in railway transport.
They called for active, practical cooperation within the framework of the adopted Concept of Cooperation of the SCO Member states in the field of development of ports and logistics centres (Astana, July 4, 2024).
The Heads of Delegations spoke in favor of increasing cooperation in the field
of environmental protection, including biodiversity conservation and waste
management. They instructed the authorized agencies to take measures for
effective implementation of the Statement of the Council of Heads of State of
the SCO Member States on effective waste management adopted on July 4, 2024, in
Astana, the Agreement between the Governments of the SCO Member States on
cooperation in the field of environmental protection and the Program on
development of cooperation between the SCO Member States in the field of
protected areas (specially protected natural territories, protected natural
areas) and eco-tourism. The Heads of Delegations highly appreciated for holding
environmental actions and events within the framework of the SCO Year of
Ecology in 2024.
The heads of delegations noted the importance of implementing the UN General
Assembly resolutions on "Sustainable Mountain Development" on
declaring 2023-2027 as the "Five Years of Action for the Development of
Mountain Regions", as well as the annual celebration of World Glacier Day
on March 21 and the establishment of a trust fund to support glacier
conservation activities.
The Heads of Delegation noted the results of the Meeting of the Heads of Ministries and Departments of the SCO Member states responsible for Environmental Protection (Astana, May 22, 2024) and called for the consistent implementation of the Program for the Creation of a Platform for the Exchange of Information in the Field of Environmental Protection (Beijing, November 1, 2022), adopted by the interested Member States, as well as the Joint Approaches of the SCO Member States to Address Environmental Issues adopted in Astana on May 22, 2024, and the Joint Action Plan for the Implementation The SCO Green Belt Program for 2024-2026 and the Plan for the Implementation of the Concept of Cooperation of the SCO Member States in the Field of Environmental Protection for 2025-2027.
The Heads of Delegations, reaffirming the commitment of the SCO Member States
to cooperate on climate change and overcome its negative consequences through
the exchange of experience and the study of best practices, instructed the
relevant ministries and departments to accelerate the establishment of the
activities of the Special Working Group on Climate Change, including the
adoption of the relevant Regulation. They noted the proposals for the
development of a draft agreement between the governments of the SCO Member
States on cooperation in the field of climate change, as well as on the
creation of the SCO Database on Innovative Environmental Technologies.
They are in favor of developing a dialogue with relevant international
institutions in order to attract investment and finance joint projects and
programs in the field of environmental protection, the introduction of new
environmentally friendly technologies, and increasing the share of the
"green" economy.
The heads of delegations also noted the results of the SCO Forum on Green
Development (Qingdao, July 8-9, 2024).
The heads of delegations, noting the increasing risks of natural disasters,
spoke in favor of further deepening cooperation between emergency agencies,
including in the field of space monitoring of natural disaster risks, the
exchange of operational information and best practices, the holding of seminars
and practical exercises for timely response to emergencies, including ensuring
safety during emergency rescue operations.
They reaffirmed their intention to ensure the implementation of the Action Plan
for 2023-2025 on the implementation of the Agreement between the Governments of
the SCO Member States on Cooperation in Providing Assistance in Emergency
Response (Moscow, 26 October 2005).
The heads of delegations spoke in favour of increasing cooperation of the
Member States in the prevention and treatment of infectious and non-infectious
diseases, ensuring sanitary and epidemiological well-being, digitalization of
healthcare systems, ensuring access to high-quality medicines, and development
of medical tourism in the SCO region. In the context of the results of the SCO
Health Ministers Meeting (Astana, March 14, 2024), they instructed the relevant
Ministries and Departments to ensure the implementation of the adopted Plan of
Basic Measures for the Development of SCO Health Cooperation for 2025-2027, as
well as to accelerate the consideration of the proposal to establish the SCO
Medical Association in the format of interested states.
The heads of delegations noted the results of the Meeting of the Expert Working
Group of the SCO Member States on Traditional Medicine (23 November 2023, VC)
and the SCO International Medical Congress (Bishkek, March 27-29, 2024).
The Heads of Delegations emphasized that in order to ensure sanitary and
epidemiological well-being and improve the preparedness of the Member States to
counter epidemics of infectious diseases, it is necessary to achieve reliable
access to basic sanitation and hygiene services for all. They noted the
proposal to hold the next Meeting of the Heads of Services of the SCO Member
States responsible for ensuring sanitary and epidemiological well-being on
December 12th, 2024, in St. Petersburg, including considering the
implementation of the Statement of the Council of Heads of the SCO Member
States on Ensuring Safe Drinking Water and Sanitation (Astana, July 4, 2024),
as well as the preparation for the draft Agreement on Cooperation of the SCO
Member States in Combating Plague.
The heads of delegations noted the importance of developing further cooperation
in overcoming poverty and increasing the well-being of the population within
the framework of the activities of the Special Working Group (SWG) of the SCO
Member States on poverty reduction issues. The work of the SCO Member States in
this area contributes to the formation of a lifestyle aimed at achieving the
relevant UN Sustainable Development Goals, and also helps to disseminate the
experience of best programs and practices among the SCO Member States. They
noted the results of the meeting of the SWG (December 6th, 2023, VC) and the
thematic expert meeting (September 10th, 2024, VC), as well as the proposal to
develop a programme of cooperation among the SCO Member States on poverty
reduction.
The Heads of Delegation noted the results of the Meeting of the Ministers of
Agriculture of the SCO Member States(29 May 2024, VC), including the approval
of the Programme for the Development of Cooperation in Breeding and Seed
Production of Agricultural Crops between the SCO Member States. They called for
further strengthening cooperation in order to increase mutual trade in
agricultural products and expand the areas of interaction between the Member
States on the basis of previously adopted documents and solutions in the field
of agriculture and food security.
The Heads of Delegation reaffirmed the need for action to strengthen global
food security and improve nutrition and encourage efforts to develop
cooperation in research on climate-resilient and nutritious cereal crops,
including millet, rice, wheat, maize and other traditional crops.
The Heads of Delegation noted the proposal for the participation of the SCO
Member States in the Belagro International Agricultural Exhibition (Minsk, 3-7
June 2025).
The heads of delegations stressed the unwavering commitment of the Member States to respect and preserved traditional values and cultural and civilizational diversity, as well as the need to further deepen cooperation in the humanitarian field by introducing new formats of interaction in education, culture, tourism and sports. They noted the importance of strengthening the global dialogue between religions and cultures, including within the framework of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions.
The heads of delegations noted the results of the Meeting of Heads of
Ministries and Departments responsible for the development of physical culture
and sports in the SCO Member States(Almaty, 24 May 2024), as well as the need
to accelerate the consideration of the initiatives to establish the Association
of SCO Sports Organizations, establish a Working Group on Physical Culture and
Sports and hold the SCO Sports Games.
The heads of delegations noted the proposal to hold the “Silk Road” mini-football tournament for the SCO Member States Cup in futsal on December 9-18, 2024 in Tehran.
The heads of delegations, noting the
results of the Meeting of the Heads of Tourism Administrations of the SCO
Member States(Almaty, May 24, 2024), spoke in favor of the consistent
implementation of the Agreement between the Governments of the SCO Member
States on the Development of Cooperation in the Field of Tourism (Samarkand,
September 16, 2022) and the SCO Joint Plan of Action in the Field of Tourism
for the period 2024-2025.
The heads of delegations stressed the positive contribution of the annual SCO
marathon in Kunming (People's Republic of China) and Issyk-Kul region (Kyrgyz
Republic) to the development of sports cooperation within the SCO.
The Heads of Delegations attach great importance to holding sports events and
competitions with the participation of SCO Member States, SCO Observer States
and SCO Dialogue Partners in order to strengthen sports ties between the
countries, as well as the development of Olympic, non-Olympic, and Paralympic
and national sports. Recognizing the unique role of physical culture and sport
in strengthening solidarity and peace.
The Heads of Delegations stressed that the SCO Member States will promote the development of international sports cooperation on an equal and depoliticized basis, oppose discrimination against athletes on any grounds, including nationality, language, political and other beliefs, national or social origin.
The heads of delegations, advocating the development of cooperation in the
field of youth policy, noted the role of the SCO Youth Council in strengthening
cooperation between youth organizations and young leaders, including the
results of the SCO Business Incubator event (Moscow and Dubai, 23-28 September
2024).
The Heads of Delegations noted the results of the Meeting of the Heads of
Ministries and Departments of Science and Technology of the SCO Member
States(19 June 2024, VC), at which it was agreed to give priority to the
formation and implementation of mutually interested programs and projects in
the field of scientific and technical cooperation, improving the legal
framework and intensifying scientific and technical cooperation of the SCO
Member States.
The Heads of Delegation highlighted the need to intensify interaction within the framework of the Action Plan on Scientific and Technical Cooperation between the SCO Member States on priority areas (2022-2025) (Samarkand, September 16th, 2022).
The Heads of Delegations believe that in the context of globalization, startups
and innovations play a key role in increasing the competitiveness of states,
and in these regards noted the results of the meeting of the Special Working
Group on Startups and Innovations (November 23, 2023, VC) and the 4th SCO
Startup Forum (New Delhi, March 18-20, 2024).
The Heads of Delegations welcomed the joint efforts of the SCO Member States to
conduct a pilot selection for the joint research and innovation projects within
the SCO, as well as the adoption of a roadmap for the implementation of the
Cooperation Programme of the SCO Member States for the Development of
Artificial Intelligence.
The Heads of Delegations noted the results of the Meeting of the Ministers of
Culture of the SCO Member States(15 May 2024, VC) and emphasized the importance
of further developing cultural cooperation to strengthen friendship and
good-neighbourly relations. They stressed the prospects for cooperation in the
field of culture and noted the proposal to draw up a Calendar of Cultural
Exchanges of the SCO Member States.
The Heads of Delegations spoke in favour of further active implementation of
the Agreement between the Governments of the SCO Member States on Cooperation
in the Protection of Cultural Heritage Sites (Dushanbe, 17 September 2021),
including in order to counter the smuggling of cultural property.
The Heads of Delegations highly appreciated the events within the framework of
the tourist and cultural capital of the SCO in 2023-2024 in Almaty. They
believe that the announcement of the city of Qingdao as the tourist and
cultural capital of the SCO for the period 2024-2025 will also contribute to
unlocking the tourism potential of the region and further strengthening
cooperation in the field of culture.
The Heads of Delegation noted the results of the Meeting of the Ministers of
Education of the SCO Member States(Moscow, 18 April 2024), at which priority
was given to building up cooperation within the SCO University, the development
of cooperation in the field of academic exchanges, joint scientific work, the
organization of vocational education, language training, enhancing youth
interaction, as well as digitalization in the field of education in the SCO
interested Member States.
The heads of delegations emphasize that people-to-people diplomacy contributes
to strengthening mutual understanding and cultural and humanitarian ties within
the SCO. They noted the contribution of the Chinese Committee for
Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation, the Center for
People-to-People Diplomacy of the SCO in Uzbekistan, the Center for Cultural
and Integration of the SCO in the Kyrgyz Republic, the Center for Friendship
and Cooperation of the SCO in the Republic of Tajikistan and the National
Center for People-to-People Diplomacy of the SCO in the Russian Federation to
the development of humanitarian cooperation within the Organization.
The Heads of Delegation approved the Report of the SCO Secretariat on the
Events and Meetings held within the framework of the Implementation of the
Programme of Multilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation of the SCO Member
States and the SCO budget for 2025.
Decisions were made on a number of issues related to the financial and
organizational activities of the SCO Permanent Bodies, taking into account the
accession of the Republic of Belarus to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
The Heads of Delegation expressed their gratitude to the Islamic Republic of
Pakistan for the successful organization of the twenty-third Meeting of the
Council of Heads of Government (Prime Ministers) of the SCO Member States,
which was held in a constructive and friendly atmosphere.
The next meeting of the Council of Heads of Government (Prime Ministers) of the
SCO Member States will be held in 2025 in the Russian Federation.
1. Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus, R.A. Golovchenko
2. Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of India, S. Jaishankar
3. Minister of Industry, Mine and Trade of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Seyed Mohammad Atabak
4. Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan O.A.Bektenov
5. Premier of the State Council of
the People's Republic of China
Li Qiang
6. Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, A.U. Zhaparov
7. Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif
8. Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation, M.V. Mishustin
9. Prime Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan, Kokhir Rasulzoda
10. Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan, A.N. Aripov
Islamabad, October 16, 2024
