Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A delegation led by Chairman of the Supreme Court of Uzbekistan Bakhtiyor Islamov participated in the 20th Meeting of Chairpersons of Supreme Courts of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States, held in Hangzhou under the chairmanship of the People’s Republic of China.

The forum was attended by judicial leaders and representatives from Belarus, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, as well as partner countries such as Azerbaijan and Türkiye, along with officials from the SCO Secretariat and the SCO RATS Executive Committee.

The meeting was held in an atmosphere of friendship, professionalism, mutual understanding, and trust. Participants discussed a wide range of issues related to the administration of justice and explored opportunities for enhancing cooperation among the judicial bodies of SCO member states.

Special attention was given to cybersecurity and digital governance. The participants expressed readiness to deepen practical cooperation in the fight against cybercrime, including improving collaborative mechanisms and sharing best practices. They also explored the integration of artificial intelligence technologies into the judiciary.

The forum emphasized the judiciary's crucial role in dispute prevention and resolution, highlighting the importance of combining court proceedings with alternative conflict resolution mechanisms. A particular focus was placed on protecting the rights of minors, including tightening accountability, improving legislation, and strengthening international cooperation in child protection.

Discussions also addressed countering violent and terrorist crimes.

Participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening regional stability and security through joint efforts, adherence to international law, and continued development of mutual judicial cooperation based on trust, neighborliness, and respect.

The event concluded with the signing of a Joint Statement outlining agreed objectives and a shared commitment to deepening collaboration. It was agreed that the 21st Meeting of Chairpersons of SCO Supreme Courts will be held in 2026 in the Islamic Republic of Iran.