Speech by H.E. Li Keqiang at the 17th Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization

China will continue to organize popular programs such as the youth camps. We propose making the Congress of Women and the Media Forum SCO’s regular activities. We applaud the establishment of the SCO Heads of Region Forum and would be glad to host its meeting in Chongqing next year. All this will serve to carry forward the friendship among the SCO countries.

China supports closer cooperation with observer states and partners and more engagement and dialogue with the United Nations and other international organizations. China commends the work of the SCO Secretariat and Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure (RATS), and calls on parties to increase funding and human resources to support these permanent bodies in fulfilling their duties.

Colleagues,

This year marks the 40th anniversary of reform and opening-up in China. Over the past four decades, China has not only made remarkable progress but also contributed to world economic development. Going forward, China will keep to the course of reform and opening-up and roll out reform measures in all respects to streamline administration, delegate powers, improve government services, further widen market access, exercise fair and equitable regulation and supervision, enhance convergence with international economic and trade rules, fully protect intellectual property rights, and create a business environment in which Chinese and foreign-owned enterprises are treated as equals and compete on a level playing field. These measures will help to maintain China’s position as a magnet for foreign investment.

Five years after it was first announced, the BRI has become a popular international public good that is delivering broad benefits. It is also a testimony to China’s commitment to opening up and sharing development opportunities with the world. BRI was first proposed in an SCO member, and SCO serves as an important platform for BRI endeavors. China is ready to further synergize the BRI with development strategies of fellow SCO members in the spirit of consultation, cooperation and benefit for all. Through these efforts we hope to make the SCO an example of openness, cooperation and common development among regional countries.

According to a Tajik proverb, “One cannot carry two watermelons with one hand.” Similarly, we Chinese believe one hand cannot clap. Unity leads to success, and cooperation creates a bright future. Let’s follow the Shanghai Spirit and forge ahead with mutual trust and mutual benefit. Together, we will usher in an even brighter future for the SCO.

Thank you.