Putin: SCO is the largest regional organization in the world

According to the statement made by the Kremlin Palace, Putin attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit held in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan.

Speaking at the summit, Putin stated that the SCO continues to strengthen and expand and said, "The SCO is the largest regional organization not only in the Eurasian continent but also in the world. Almost half of the world's population lives in the member countries of the organization. One third of the global gross product belongs to these countries."

Expressing that the SCO has great potential, Putin said that the SCO member countries have developed cooperation in various fields, which ensures peace and stability in the Eurasian region.

Noting that Russia's trade volume with SCO countries exceeded 400 billion dollars last year, Putin said, "National currencies are used in mutual payments. The share of national currencies in Russia's transactions with the member countries of the organization is over 98 percent."

Expressing that the Republic of Tatarstan, which is affiliated with Russia, is ready to host the Nomad Games next year, Putin stated that the International United Cultures Forum will also be held in Russia.

Recalling that the Second World War started on September 1, 1939, Putin said, "We must do our best to eliminate the elements that provoke armed conflicts. Our work is in this direction."