Of particular importance are the works on greening the dried-up bottom of the Aral Sea, creation of "green belts" and public eco-parks, which not only improve the environmental situation, but also serve the interests of the entire region.

Another area of cooperation between Uzbekistan and SCO countries is ensuring food security through the implementation of joint projects in the agricultural sector, introduction of innovative technologies and development of infrastructure for storage and transportation of food products.

Uzbekistan attaches great importance to expanding the SCO's cultural and humanitarian cooperation. Particular attention is paid to joint educational programs, academic exchanges and projects in the field of science, as well as cultural and sports events that not only popularize national traditions, but also create an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect.

Another important area is tourism. The SCO countries are faced with a shortage of high-quality and affordable regional tourism products, constraining the development of the industry. Uzbekistan advocates intensifying interaction between leading tour operators and airlines of the SCO countries and partners.

Today 46 regular passenger flights per week connect Uzbekistan and China and its number will reach 60 by the end of the year.

Uzbekistan continues to consistently advocate the expansion of regional cooperation in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, including through the SCO mechanisms. The formation of a common platform for the exchange of experience and coordination of efforts within the SCO is important. Such joint work can give new impetus to member states in overcoming poverty, ensuring inclusive and green growth and sustainable development as a whole.

Finally, considering the growing number of participants and the expanding functions of the SCO, improving the structure and mechanisms of the Organization becomes a necessary condition for increasing its effectiveness. Uzbekistan advocates for reforming coordination mechanisms and developing a long-term strategy, with a view of the interests of all countries and contemporary challenges.

Through development of active collaboration within the SCO, Uzbekistan supports the new standard of regional cooperation — based on pragmatism, respect of the national characteristics and strive for sustainable development. Our experience and the region demonstrates: even in the conditions of the growing global uncertainty it's possible to form effective mechanisms of cooperation and humanitarian exchange.

The implementation of joint initiatives with China and other partners allows Uzbekistan to contribute to transforming the SCO into an independent center of attraction in Eurasia. A focus on openness, innovation and multi-level cooperation meets the pressing challenges of our times and creates new opportunities for all member states.

Overall, Uzbekistan's strategic choice is to not merely be part of regional processes, but an active creator of our common future, where the principles of trust and mutual benefit will determine the dynamics of development across the entire vast region.

We look with great anticipation to the SCO summit in Tianjin. I am convinced that its work will be successful and bring meaningful results for all member states. Taking this opportunity, I would like to sincerely extend wishes of peace, well-being and prosperity to the friendly people of great China.

The author is president of the Republic of Uzbekistan.