President Mirziyoyev proposes ‘SCO–2040’ vision for deeper economic integration

Climate, water and transport on the agenda

Mirziyoyev said climate change was increasingly affecting the food, water and energy security of SCO countries and called for a coordinated agenda covering these interconnected challenges.

He proposed establishing a specialized SCO mechanism to coordinate comprehensive programs and facilitate the exchange of technologies and expertise. Among the possible measures, he suggested developing an SCO technological cooperation program on water and energy efficiency through 2035.

The president also called for deeper integration of national railway systems, proposing the creation of a council on railway-space integration among SCO member states. The body would coordinate logistics infrastructure development and work toward seamless connections between national transport networks.

Mirziyoyev calls for renewed SCO dialogue with Afghanistan

The Uzbek president also stressed the importance of peace and stability in Afghanistan for regional security and development.

He said the region needs a prosperous Afghanistan integrated into constructive regional processes and proposed restoring regular SCO dialogue with Afghanistan to discuss security and economic cooperation.

Mirziyoyev also welcomed the planned adoption of amendments to the SCO Charter and regulations governing the organization’s Universal Center and Anti-Drug Center. He said Uzbekistan would provide the necessary conditions for the Universal Center for Countering Security Threats and Risks to operate effectively in Tashkent.

Uzbekistan proposes cultural heritage program

Cultural and humanitarian cooperation should remain a priority for the SCO, Mirziyoyev said.

He proposed preparing a cooperation program for 2028–2030 focused on preserving and promoting traditional arts and intangible cultural heritage, describing the initiative as a way to strengthen ties between the peoples of SCO member states.

The summit is being held under Kyrgyzstan’s chairmanship and marks 25 years since the SCO was established. The meeting is expected to result in the Bishkek Declaration and a package of documents covering security, economic cooperation, transport, environmental protection, artificial intelligence and cultural and humanitarian ties.

Mirziyoyev thanked Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov for hosting the summit and congratulated the Kyrgyz people on the 35th anniversary of the country’s state sovereignty. He also said Uzbekistan would continue contributing to regional stability and prosperity based on mutual respect, good-neighborly relations and trust.