SCO Secretariat Participates in the Second Asian Women's Forum

On May 14, 2026, at the invitation of Tanzila Narbayeva, Chairperson of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, a delegation of the Secretariat of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation led by Deputy Secretary-General Piao Yangfan took part in the Second Asian Women's Forum in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. Theme of the Forum: "Investing in Women as a Foundation for Sustainable Development: Expanding Political, Economic, Social, and Environmental Opportunities for Women."

The event brought together approximately 300 participants, including high-ranking guests from more than 20 countries and 10 international and regional organizations. Among them were representatives of parliaments and governments of Asian states, as well as civil society and business circles.

During the Forum's opening ceremony, Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, delivered a welcome address from the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, to the participants.

SCO Secretariat Participates in the Second Asian Women's Forum

Deputy Secretary-General Piao Yangfan in her speech noted the significant achievements made by SCO member states over the past quarter-century in ensuring gender equality and enhancing the role of women in political life and socio-economic development. She stated that the SCO Development Strategy until 2035 affirms the readiness of member states to continue cooperation in safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of women and strengthening their political, economic, and social status.

SCO Secretariat Participates in the Second Asian Women's Forum

Furthermore she proposed that the international community step up its efforts to cultivate a more favorable environment for the full realization of women's potential in the development of nations and the progress of humanity.

The Asian Women's Forum has been held since 2024. It was initiated by the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who, at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, proposed holding the event in Uzbekistan. The Forum's goal is to harness the rich potential of women and exchange experiences in realizing their opportunities across all spheres of society.