SCO countries to hold joint emergency-response exercises

Shanghai Cooperation Organization countries will conduct joint exercises and training to improve their readiness to help members affected by emergencies.

The agreement appears in a statement published on the SCO website after the organization's anniversary summit in Bishkek on September 1. The document highlights an initiative from Kyrgyzstan to create a mechanism for assisting countries hit by emergencies. It also takes into account a Russian proposal to establish reserve resource funds for preparing to deal with international crises and emergencies.

Under the statement, SCO members intend to give priority to humanitarian assistance for member states affected by natural, technological, biological or social emergencies, as well as other types of disasters. Assistance would be provided following an official request or with the affected country's consent.

The countries also plan to improve the rapid exchange of information about emergencies, the scale of damage, the immediate needs of affected states and available assistance. They will cooperate with international and regional organizations, including United Nations bodies, to coordinate humanitarian-response efforts and share experience. Implementing the statement will not require additional financial contributions or the creation of a separate budget.