Forum calls for political cooperation, solidarity

Leaders of political parties from the member states, observer states and dialogue partners of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization have called for solidarity and cooperation to tackle global challenges, build a universal security framework and promote socioeconomic stability.

They made the statement at the SCO Political Parties Forum, which opened on Wednesday in Urumqi, capital of the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region.

Co-organized by the International Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the CPC Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Regional Committee, the two-day event brought together more than 200 representatives from over 60 political parties across SCO member states, observer states and dialogue partners. The discussions focused on the role of political parties in advancing the sustainable development of the SCO.

At the opening ceremony, Liu Jianchao, head of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, highlighted the SCO's 24 years of development, calling it a period marked by deepening exchanges and cooperation among political parties and organizations in the SCO framework.

Liu said the CPC maintains regular communication with more than 130 political parties and organizations from SCO-related countries, and proposed that the forum be held on a regular basis to broaden communication channels, deepen exchanges and strengthen the SCO political party network.

In a congratulatory message to the forum, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon said that in the face of rising global tensions and worsening economic crises, unity among countries is key to safeguarding security and stability, boosting economic development and improving people's livelihoods.

Countries should work together to create favorable conditions for regional and global cooperation and enhance dialogue among political parties, he said.

SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev also addressed the forum, saying the organization's role and core principles are increasingly important as the world grapples with growing threats and challenges. He stressed the need to uphold a democratic, fair and multipolar international order.

Anusha Rahman Ahmad Khan, a senator from Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, said political parties play a critical role in shaping policies that drive inclusive growth, environmental protection and social equity.

Mao Weihua in Urumqi contributed to this story.