Expanding trade and economic cooperation key for SCO - TokayevThe expansion of trade and economic ties among member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) remains a key priority, emphasized Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev."Important tasks for the SCO include expanding trade and economic cooperation, facilitating the free movement of capital and technologies, and addressing climate challenges. The trend of increasing mutual trade is becoming common within the SCO," Tokayev highlighted during the SCO summit in Astana, as reported by the presidential press service.Tokayev observed that adverse trends are gaining momentum in the global economy. "According to the World Bank, global economic growth is projected to slow down this year. It is evident that the world economy requires new growth strategies and a fundamentally different development paradigm," he said.Highlighting positive regional developments, Tokayev pointed out that Kazakhstan's trade with SCO countries grew by 6.5% last year. "SCO countries have a strong technological foundation and a vast market for developing essential economic sectors. Implementation of special tax, customs, and migration regimes will significantly contribute to this effort," he emphasized.In line with Kazakhstan's vision, Tokayev reiterated the proposal to establish an SCO Economic Preferences Base. "There is a clear need for a unified platform to discuss and approve investment projects," he stressed.President Tokayev further proposed the creation of a mechanism to financially support project activities based on the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC). "China, Russia, India, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan are actively engaged in this initiative, with SCO countries representing 20% of AIFC residents," he added. (ICE ALMATY)

Fonte notizia: INTERFAX