The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO ) members on Thursday issued a declaration, saying the organization is working on a multilateral document in a bid to secure lasting friendship and cooperation in the region.

 

"The member states will remain friends from generation to generation and will never be enemies against one another," says the declaration, which was issued after the SCO members concluded an annual summit in Shanghai.

 

The members pledged not to join any alliance or international organization that undermines the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of SCO member states, according to the declaration.

 

The members are also committed that they do not allow their territories to be used to undermine the sovereignty, security or territorial integrity of other member states, and they prohibit activities by organizations or gangs in their territories that are detrimental to the interests of other member states.

 

"To this end, SCO member states will conduct, within the SCO framework, consultation on the conclusion of a multilateral legal document of long-term good-neighborly relations, friendship and cooperation," the declaration says.

 

The members also emphasized in the declaration that the international community should show respect and understanding to the unique historical and cultural traditions of Central Asian nations.

 

"The governments of Central Asian countries should be supported in their efforts to safeguard security and stability, maintain social and economic development and improve people's livelihood," the declaration says.

 

Meanwhile, in case of emergencies that threaten regional peace, stability and security, the declaration says the SCO members will study the possibility of establishing a regional conflict prevention mechanism within the SCO framework.

 

The declaration says SCO member states will continue to tap the potential of the organization, enhance its role and work to turn this region into one that is peaceful, coordinated in development, open, prosperous and harmonious.

 

They also promised to strengthen coordination and cooperation in international and regional affairs and take a common position on matters involving the SCO's interests. "The SCO has the potential to play an independent role in safeguarding stability and security in this region," the declaration says.

 

(Xinhua News Agency June 15, 2006)