CRI听力:Belarus expects closer ties with SCO members, analysts

Analysts in Belarus have said that they expect greater cooperation with members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization will help to enhance economic ties with countries in the region.

Vadzim Suhak is the head of the Belarusian-Chinese Analytical Development Center at the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus.

He said that closer cooperation with SCO members has offered great opportunities for Belarus. 

"The leader of our country once said Belarus could act as a western gateway for the SCO. We can help push forward economic cooperation within the framework of SCO with transportation infrastructure projects. Our country has shown growth potential in areas like cross-border transportation, and industrial and technological development, as well as in the tourism sector. Meanwhile, we will play an active role in solving regional security issues. "

During a meeting with China's vice president Wang Qishan last month, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said he appreciates and supports President Xi Jinping's vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind. He said that his country stands ready to join hands with China to align their development strategies.

Leaders from the two sides have jointly promoted the China-Belarus industrial park, a special economic zone in the Minsk Region, which is expected to become a landmark cooperation program in the Belt and Road Initiative.

Suhak added that as a member of Eurasian Economic Union, and a key transportation hub on the route of the Belt and Road, Belarus brings plenty of geopolitical advantages to the SCO.

"Members of the SCO, and the EAEU, and the countries along the route of the Belt and Road all have their own interests and demands. So it's very important to connect their growth strategies and find common interest. And this is a critical task and challenge for SCO members. "

The Belarusian analyst suggests that experts from SCO member countries could work together to enhance communications across the platform.

"The Shanghai Cooperation Organization could offer a platform for experts from various countries to communicate and exchange ideas, as well as map out action plans on future development of the region. For instance, a think-tank center for the SCO could help provide effective advice for multilateral cooperation within the framework. "

Belarus joined the SCO as an observer in 2015.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has arrived in China's coastal city of Qingdao to attend the SCO summit.