SCO Secretary-General delivers video address at the 2nd International Forum on Digital Cooperation in Kuwait

SCO Secretary-General delivers video address at the 2nd International Forum on Digital Cooperation in Kuwait

The Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, Nurlan Yermekbaev, delivered a video address to the participants of the 2nd International Forum on Digital Cooperation. Held under the auspices of the Digital Cooperation Organisation, the Forum took place on 4-5 February in Kuwait City under the theme "Inclusive Prosperity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence".

In his address, the Secretary-General stressed that artificial intelligence and digital technologies are becoming key factors of economic growth and competitiveness, exerting a significant impact on the development of states. In this context, the SCO reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sustainable development.

It was noted that SCO member states, possessing significant innovative potential and accounting for nearly half of the world's population, are developing cooperation in digitalisation and artificial intelligence, guided by the principles of the "Shanghai Spirit" - mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations and pursuit of common development.

Nurlan Yermekbaev highlighted that at the meeting of the Council of Heads of SCO State held in Tianjin, People's Republic of China, in September 2025, declarations on artificial intelligence and the digital economy were adopted, confirming the high level of political support for these areas from the leaders of SCO member states.

Addressing the challenges of the digital era, the Secretary-General noted risks related to cybersecurity, data protection, and access to advanced technologies, emphasising the need to strengthen regional and global cooperation in this area.