The SCO intends to consistently expand mutual settlements in national currencies

He made the corresponding statement during the Boao Forum held in Hainan.

"Today, the agenda includes the implementation of a roadmap for a gradual increase in the share of national currencies in the mutual settlements of the SCO member states," TASS quoted him as saying.

He stressed that an important factor in the development of intraregional trade and investment between the SCO countries is "the consistent expansion by member states of the practice of using national currencies."

Zhang Ming stressed that the relevant process will proceed "in accordance with the norms and principles of international law, taking into account the national interests of all participants."

Earlier, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko said that the Russian side expects an increase in the use of national currencies in settlements with China for energy supplies.