St. Petersburg (TDI): The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has underlined the importance of strengthening legal cooperation and mutual trust to support trade, investment and regional connectivity during the 14th St. Petersburg International Legal Forum in Russia.
Held from June 24 to 26 under the theme “Time to Be in the Right,” the forum brought together more than 5,000 legal experts, government officials and business representatives to discuss challenges facing the international legal system and global governance.
Speaking at a session titled “Territory of Legal Trust: A Platform for Effective Business in the CIS, EAEU, SCO and BRICS,” SCO Secretariat Advisor Kazybek Kochkonov said the expansion of trade, investment, transport connectivity and the digital economy across SCO member states depends on creating a reliable legal environment.
He stressed that businesses need clear regulations, confidence in the protection of their rights and effective mechanisms for resolving disputes.
Kochkonov also reaffirmed the SCO’s commitment to strengthening international law, respecting the sovereignty of member states and promoting mutually beneficial partnerships to address shared regional and global challenges.
Read More: Kyrgyzstan Launches SCO Regional Centre to Boost Investment Cooperation
The growing emphasis on legal cooperation reflects the increasing importance of transparent and predictable regulatory frameworks in supporting cross-border investment and economic integration. Strong legal institutions are widely regarded as essential for fostering investor confidence and facilitating sustainable development.
Regional organizations are also placing greater focus on harmonising legal standards and improving dispute resolution mechanisms as trade and connectivity projects expand across Eurasia. Such efforts aim to reduce barriers to business while encouraging greater economic cooperation among participating countries.
Read More: SCO Secretariat Hosts Book Handover Ceremony in Beijing
Analysts note that strengthening legal trust complements broader initiatives in transport, digital transformation and regional connectivity, helping create a more stable environment for long-term investment, commercial partnerships and inclusive economic growth.
