Secretary-General Yermekbayev: The SCO advocates respect for sovereignty and the non-use of force

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization consistently advocates respect for sovereignty and the non-use of force or threat of force, SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev told RIA Novosti when asked to comment on the US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

“In response to your question, I would like to emphasize: the SCO consistently advocates respect for the principles of respect for sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of states, and the non-use of force or threat of force,” Yermekbayev said.

The Secretary-General added that this is enshrined in both the organization’s founding documents and in annual declarations adopted during summit meetings.

“The SCO has previously expressed concern about the situation surrounding Iran, a member state,” the Secretary-General noted. According to him, “regarding the current escalation of tensions and the use of military force and resources in the Middle East, the SCO’s legal framework provides for the possibility of taking collective political and diplomatic measures.”

“The decision is made by the organization’s member states by consensus,” Yermekbayev added.

Anna Ratkoglo