Declaration of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization on Strengthening Multilateral Partnership in Nuclear Safety and Nuclear Security

The member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (hereinafter referred to as the “SCO”),

based on historical ties, a century-old tradition of good neighborliness, and mutual respect,

declare their commitment to the SCO Charter, the Charter of the United Nations, and the universally recognized principles and norms of international law, including respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-interference in internal affairs,

upholding the “Shanghai Spirit” of “mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations, and pursuit of common development,”

confirm that the responsibility for nuclear security rests entirely with each state, and note that the responsibility for nuclear safety rests with the operators of nuclear facilities and the states in which such facilities are located,

attach great importance to nuclear safety and nuclear security issues, which are important elements of international security directly affecting the lives of the peoples of SCO member states,

express deep concern over the illicit trafficking of nuclear materials and other radioactive substances, threats to nuclear facilities and infrastructure (including computer security), and the risk of nuclear terrorism,

recognize the need to create conditions to prevent the malicious use of nuclear materials and other radioactive substances,

taking into account the significant importance of the development of peaceful uses of nuclear energy for the economic growth, energy security, and technological progress of member states,

emphasize the importance of constructively strengthening regional cooperation in enhancing the level of nuclear security,

in the spirit of working for the well-being of humanity, both present and future,

hereby adopt this Declaration.

I. General Provisions

The SCO member states confirm that nuclear safety and nuclear security within their territories are priority matters closely linked to ensuring regional sustainability, stability, and the long-term development of member states.

The member states strongly condemn any attack or threat of attack against peaceful nuclear facilities, consider such acts to be in violation of international law, and call for the avoidance of such actions that pose a threat to international peace and security.

The member states consider it necessary to take effective measures to prevent nuclear and radiation emergencies, ensure the physical security of nuclear materials and other radioactive substances and related facilities, and strengthen cooperation to prevent the illicit trafficking of nuclear materials and other radioactive substances.

The enhancement of mutual trust among states and the conduct of constructive dialogue are key conditions for improving the levels of nuclear safety and nuclear security and reducing risks associated with the use of nuclear technology.

The member states support effective cooperation in preventing the malicious use of nuclear materials and other radioactive substances.

The member states note the importance of the peaceful uses of nuclear energy in accordance with universally recognized norms of international law and national legislation.

The member states attach particular importance to deepening multilateral cooperation in the timely notification, response, and assistance (upon request) in the event of nuclear and radiation emergencies, including information sharing, joint exercises, personnel training, and the development of specialized cooperation mechanisms.

The member states confirm that strengthening nuclear safety and nuclear security not only safeguards public safety and enhances the resilience of critical infrastructure, but also contributes to building mutual trust within the SCO and globally.

The member states believe that the earliest possible full entry into force of the Protocol to the Treaty on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia will make an important contribution to ensuring regional security and strengthening the international regime of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.

The member states support the contribution of developing countries to strengthening international cooperation in nuclear safety and nuclear security.

II. Cooperation in Nuclear Safety and Nuclear Security

The member states plan to strengthen cooperation in nuclear safety and nuclear security through the following measures:

Developing cooperation among national regulatory authorities, including the exchange of experience, best practices, and technical approaches in the fields of nuclear safety and nuclear security.

Strengthening domestic control mechanisms for nuclear materials and other radioactive substances, improving accounting and control systems, and preventing leakage, illicit trafficking, theft, or misuse.

Advancing joint educational, scientific research, and technological projects, upgrading peaceful nuclear infrastructure, strengthening physical protection of facilities, optimizing radioactive waste management, and developing radiation monitoring systems.

Expanding cooperation in exchanging advanced practices and experience in the safe operation of nuclear facilities, including prevention and maintenance, and the development of modern automated control systems.

Conducting joint activities for the safe disposal of radioactive waste, developing environmentally friendly radioactive waste disposal technologies, and implementing innovative solutions that reduce risks to human health and the environment.

Holding exercises, training sessions, and practical activities among the competent authorities of member states to enhance the level of preparedness for potential nuclear and radiation emergencies.

Strengthening early warning systems, sharing technical data, predictive models, and analytical information in real time where necessary, optimizing emergency response effectiveness, while ensuring the confidentiality of sensitive information.

Promoting the establishment of scientific research platforms focused on developing innovative technologies and solutions to improve the safety level of the nuclear industry and strengthen the scientific and technological potential of SCO member states.

Encouraging scientific and technological cooperation aimed at improving the safety level of nuclear facilities, enhancing radiation monitoring technologies, and reducing risks to the public and the environment.

Developing national programs for the training and retraining of personnel in the fields of nuclear safety and nuclear security, relying on leading specialized institutions of member states.

III. The member states reaffirm their readiness to expand partnerships with all states, international and regional organizations committed to strengthening nuclear safety and nuclear security. Special action plans (or programs) may be developed to implement this Declaration.

The member states believe that developing multilateral cooperation and strengthening confidence-building mechanisms in the fields of nuclear safety and nuclear security will contribute to ensuring peace, stability, and sustainable development in the Eurasian region. These efforts will make an important contribution to consolidating nuclear safety and nuclear security.

The member states emphasize that this Declaration reflects their common position on creating a safe and predictable environment in the field of peaceful uses of nuclear energy, addressing threats to nuclear safety and nuclear security, and developing technologies aimed at benefiting all of humanity.

Bishkek, September 1, 2026