Rashid Alimov: “The SCO flag is in good hands.” SCO Youth Assembly results summarised in Dongfang

On 11 November 2018, the Chinese city of Dongfang hosted the official closing ceremony of the SCO Youth Assembly.

"The warmth of your hearts has made these three days an unforgettable experience, filing them with the joy of encounters and moments of happiness," the SCO Secretary-General said addressing the Assembly participants, adding that "bright events and unforgettable impressions, new encounters and positive emotions — all of us felt it in this friendly, magical place."

Mr Alimov also said that "What is most important is that you dedicated all this time to discussing the most acute problems of today and together looked for answers to today's challenges. This is why government officials, UN high representatives and diplomats addressed you, while journalists carefully listened to what you said."

The SCO Secretary-General noted that "the events included heated discussions. I am delighted that you showed an innovative, visionary and creative approach. You also got to know how to listen and hear one another," Mr Alimov added. "I am satisfied to note that you have managed to create a special environment of friendship and mutual understanding, unity and co-creativity."

It is good to know that the SCO flag is in good hands, Rashid Alimov pointed out.

The Assembly has made it clear that the SCO youth movement is not limited by any borders, does not recognise any dividing lines and is aimed at strengthening friendship and cooperation, as well as jointly contributing to the common development of the SCO member states, Mr Alimov said.

Rashid Alimov expressed his appreciation to the Foreign Ministry of China, the SCO Youth Council and the Youth League under the SCO Secretariat. He said a special thanks to the leaders of the city of Dongfang and Secretary of the Municipal Party Committee of Dongfang Tie Gang for his support and assistance, as well as to CEO of Dongfang Lihua investment company, Ms Gao Zi, for the warm welcome and hospitality.

The closing ceremony also involved honouring the participants of the SCO Model conference, handing out awards to the winners of the Leader of the 21st Century intellectual contest, as well as sports events and creative competitions. All active participants in the SCO Youth Assembly were presented honourary pins and memorable gifts.

Following the award ceremony, the SCO Secretary-General said: "I consider it important to emphasise that all of you are the winners and each one of you is a true leader. All together you are representatives of the progressive youth of the SCO member states, united by common goals, values and concentrating on the common future.

Rashid Alimov said that he was happy that the Assembly was surrounded by a special feeling of sincerity, warmth and openness created by common efforts. "I can rightly say that the Shanghai Spirit triumphed here in Dongfang during these days," the SCO Secretary-General noted. He urged the Assembly participants to "take it with you to your places, to your classrooms and to your youth groups. Share the Shanghai Sprit and your impressions of the Assembly with your counterparts on social networks. And what is most important: carry the flag of the SCO youth movement with pride, for it represents justice and equal rights, mutual respect, friendship and cooperation between the countries and peoples in the Organisation," Mr Alimov concluded.