Security bloc focuses on economy as crisis hits home

The focus of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is shifting from military and politics to trade, economics and culture, said Ikram Adyrbekov, Kazakhstan's ambassador to China.

In an interview with China Daily, Adyrbekov also said the organization will increase its participation in combating terrorism in Afghanistan.

"Cooperation among SCO members has moved to a brand new level, and the scope of collaboration has greatly expanded," Adyrbekov said.