**Shanghai Cooperation Organization Secretary-General Highlights New Initiatives for Regional Economic Cooperation at Qingdao Conference**
The Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Nurlan Ermekbayev, addressed the opening ceremony of a major conference focused on regional trade and economic cooperation between China and SCO member countries in Qingdao. The event, hosted by the People’s Government of Shandong Province, brought together high-level representatives from multiple SCO nations to discuss strategies for deepening economic collaboration.
The conference took place at the Pearl of the SCO International Exhibition Center and was inaugurated by Shandong Governor Zhou Naixiang. In his keynote address, Secretary-General Ermekbayev outlined ongoing efforts and future plans to enhance trade and economic ties among SCO members. He emphasized the organization’s vision to unlock its significant economic potential, highlighting opportunities available through pilot zones, border cooperation centers, transport and logistics hubs, trade fairs, and non-governmental platforms.
A particular focus was placed on the Demonstration Zone of Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation between China and the SCO in Qingdao. Ermekbayev noted the zone’s pivotal role in fostering practical cooperation and strengthening interregional and business links among member countries.
The opening ceremony attracted a diverse array of participants, including diplomats, government officials, business leaders, and experts from Belarus, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Uzbekistan, Cambodia, and other members of the SCO community. The People’s Government of Shandong Province used the occasion to announce the “Qingdao Initiative to Strengthen Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation Between SCO Countries,” signaling a renewed commitment to multilateral economic progress.
In addition to conference proceedings, Secretary-General Ermekbayev attended the launch ceremony of the Chinese phase of the Global Arabian Horse Cup, an event organized by the China Horse Industry Association and partners from the United Arab Emirates. This initiative took place within the Qingdao demonstration zone, underscoring the region’s growing reputation as a hub for international collaboration.
Ermekbayev also presented certificates to participants of the Youth Summer Camp “Young Rescuer,” a program jointly organized by the demonstration zone and the China-SCO Center for Cooperation in the Field of Emergency Medicine. This initiative reflected the importance the SCO places on youth development and cross-border cooperation in areas like emergency response.
During his visit to Qingdao, the Secretary-General engaged with local media, sharing his perspectives on the conference, commenting on the socio-economic development of both Shandong Province and Qingdao, and emphasizing the region’s strategic importance in advancing interregional cooperation among SCO countries.
