SCO Statement: Promote joint research and development in areas such as blockchain and exchange experiences and knowledge in the digital economy

On September 3rd, according to the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states issued a joint statement on further strengthening cooperation in scientific and technological innovation.

The statement emphasized that member states will deepen collaboration in multiple cutting-edge scientific and technological fields, jointly promote the joint research and development and application of key technologies such as cloud computing, big data, and blockchain, and strengthen the core role of scientific and technological innovation in driving economic and social development.

All parties agreed to continue to promote the exchange of experience and knowledge in the digital economy, and promote mutual learning and mutual improvement of digital policies and governance models among member states.

On this basis, the SCO will focus on strengthening coordination and cooperation on key issues such as cross-border data flow governance, bridging the digital divide, opening up digital market access, and setting international standards, striving to build an open, fair, inclusive, and non-discriminatory environment for the development of the digital economy.

The statement further stated that SCO member states are willing to work together to enhance regional independent scientific and technological innovation capabilities, promote the interconnection of digital infrastructure, facilitate the transfer of technological achievements and talent exchange, jointly address global science and technology governance challenges, and contribute "SCO strength" to building a more balanced and sustainable global digital landscape.