According to STR News Afghanistan reports: The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Forum on Poverty Reduction and Sustainable Development has commenced with great enthusiasm in Yangling, Shaanxi province, China. Esteemed international delegates have convened to address the urgent global challenges of poverty and sustainable development.
Under the leadership of Wang Xiao, a respected member of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Provincial Committee and Executive Governor of Shaanxi province, the opening ceremony marked the beginning of productive discussions and strategic planning among the participants. Wang Xiao warmly welcomed all attendees, highlighting the significance of collaborative efforts in tackling poverty and promoting sustainable development.
In his keynote address, Zhao Yide, Secretary of the Shaanxi Provincial Committee of the Communist Party and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Shaanxi Provincial People’s Congress, shed light on China’s remarkable achievements in eradicating poverty. He also outlined future plans for rural revitalization and agricultural advancements, aiming to inspire the forum’s participants to explore innovative approaches and effective policies.
Praising China’s unparalleled success, Madam Shen Yueyue, Vice Chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and Chair of the Good-Neighbourliness, Friendship, and Cooperation Commission of the SCO, described the elimination of extreme poverty as a “miracle in human history.” She emphasized that China had surpassed the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals a decade ahead of schedule, calling upon SCO member nations to collaborate on poverty reduction and enhancing the well-being of their populations.
During the opening ceremony, distinguished representatives from Uzbekistan and Pakistan, including Uzbekistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Kuchkarov and Mirza Muhammad Afridi, Vice Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan, shared their countries’ experiences in poverty reduction. They acknowledged the pivotal role played by the Chinese president in lifting China out of poverty and stressed the importance of international cooperation in addressing this global challenge.
China’s rural revitalization and agricultural prowess took center stage in the forum, with Liu Huanxin, Administrator of the National Rural Revitalization Administration of China, highlighting the country’s commitment to rejuvenating rural areas and showcasing its agricultural strength.
Recognizing that poverty remains a persistent global challenge, exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic and regional conflicts, Zhang Ming, the Secretary-General of the SCO, called for concerted efforts and innovative strategies to overcome these obstacles and achieve sustainable development.
The opening ceremony also witnessed the launch of two pivotal reports: ‘Poverty Reduction and Development in SCO Member Countries’ and ‘Agricultural Integration and Standardization in SCO Member Countries.’ These reports provide valuable insights and analyses, serving as essential resources for member states in their poverty reduction endeavors.
The SCO, an influential organization encompassing political, economic, international security, and defense dimensions, holds immense sway with member countries representing around 40% of the world’s population, 60% of the Eurasian landmass, and approximately 20% of global GDP.
The three-day forum, set to continue until May 31st, promises to serve as a platform for profound discussions, knowledge sharing, and the formulation of collaborative strategies among member states. With the shared objective of alleviating poverty and achieving sustainable development, the participants aim to foster meaningful partnerships and learn from successful initiatives and practices. The outcomes of this forum have the potential to shape policies and interventions that can make a tangible difference in the lives of millions affected by poverty worldwide.
