Russia: Trade with Shanghai Cooperation Organization Countries Rises by 18 Percent in First Half of 2026

Moscow, October 20 (KUNA) -- Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin announced on Tuesday that trade turnover between Russia and the member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) rose by 18 percent in the first half of 2026, adding that most transactions between the two sides were conducted in national currencies. Russian news agency RIA Novosti quoted Mishustin as saying during his participation in the 25th meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the SCO member states, held in Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, that strengthening economic and trade relations is a priority amid challenges facing the global economy. Mishustin stressed the importance of ensuring stable energy supplies amid what he described as difficulties in global energy markets, emphasizing the need to enhance cooperation among SCO member states to guarantee the security and continuity of supplies. The Russian prime minister proposed that, in the near future, the organization establish digital platforms to facilitate the development of international freight transport and improve coordination among member states in the fields of transport and logistics. The meeting is part of efforts to strengthen economic, trade, and investment cooperation among SCO member states, with its agenda covering the development of digital infrastructure, transport, and international logistics corridors, as well as the enhancement of cultural and humanitarian ties. According to the official Tajik news agency Khovar, the 25th meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the SCO is chaired by Tajik Prime Minister Kokhir Rasulzoda and attended by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Chinese State Councilor Li Qiang, and heads of government and senior officials from the member states. (End) D.A.N./A.B.G.