On July 26, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian presided over a regular press conference.

A reporter asked a question about Russia's welcoming of Egypt's intention to become a dialogue partner of the SCO and Belarus' desire to become a member of the SCO.

  In this regard, Zhao Lijian said that since the establishment of the SCO, it has always followed the Shanghai Spirit and firmly adhered to the concept of open and inclusive cooperation, which has been highly recognized by the international community.

At present, more and more countries want to strengthen cooperation with the SCO, which fully demonstrates the increasing attractiveness and international influence of the SCO.

We welcome countries that share the Shanghai Spirit and the SCO's purpose and principles to join the SCO family.

  Zhao Lijian said that the SCO summit last year approved Egypt to grant the SCO dialogue partner status, and China supports Egypt to actively participate in cooperation under the SCO framework.

As an observer state, Belarus has been actively participating in the SCO cooperation in relevant fields, and has made important contributions to the healthy and stable development of the SCO, which China speaks highly of.

China and Belarus are comprehensive strategic cooperative partners. China supports Belarus' application for membership of the SCO, and is willing to actively study and make a decision together with other member states.

(Produced by Liu Yinghan)

Responsible editor: [Luo Pan]