Xi, Putin meet on promoting SCO's regional role

Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, June 23, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua]

For his part, Putin extended his deep sympathy and heartfelt condolences over the serious casualties and losses caused by a tornado that hit China's Jiangsu province Thursday.

The Russian president said he is looking forward to the upcoming state visit to China and an in-depth exchange of views with Xi on boosting bilateral ties and cooperation.

The SCO has huge influence in safeguarding regional peace and stability as well as promoting regional economic integration, said Putin.

The Russian president agreed with Xi on synergizing the EEU and the Belt and Road Initiative within the SCO framework, adding that he hopes new members' entry into the SCO would help the organization play a bigger role in international affairs.

Pakistan and India are expected to sign a memorandum of obligation to join the SCO at the 16th summit slated for Thursday and Friday, which is a key step for the two countries to obtain membership of the organization.

Founded in 2001, the SCO has six full members, namely China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, and six observers -- Afghanistan, Belarus, India, Iran, Mongolia and Pakistan.