The 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) began in the Kazakh capital Astana, where a wide range of current issues related to political, trade, economic, cultural, and humanitarian relations will be discussed. During the opening speech, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said, "our countries provide the vector for the development of the entire Eurasian continent. We have turned the SCO into one of the most authoritative and influential structures," noting that the interest in the SCO is growing. He added that for nearly a quarter century, the Organization has become a significant mechanism in the international relations system, greatly contributing to sustainable growth and comprehensive progress, pointing out that fruitful interaction in politics, security, economy, and culture among member states shapes the development path of the entire Eurasian continent. During the summit, leaders of member states signed a decision by the Council of Hea ds of State granting the Republic of Belarus full membership of the SCO. President of Kazakhstan welcomed Belarus's accession before the signing ceremony. The Summit brought together leaders of member and observer states, as well as dialogue partners. New agreements are expected on cooperation in areas such as counter-terrorism, drug control activities, combating organized crime across borders, and ensuring information security. Source: Qatar News Agency