On 11 October 2024, at the invitation of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, serving as Chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Zhang Ming attended the 19th East Asia Summit.
In his address to the plenary session, the Secretary-General articulated the advantages of enhancing interconnectivity and economic integration. Zhang underscored that the SCO is a prominent authority in the Eurasian region, actively engaged in the economic development of the nations within this area, as well as in bolstering political and cultural cooperation. He further highlighted that the SCO has established close partnership relations with the ASEAN states. It was noted that strengthening interconnectivity is a priority for the SCO, and the Organisation is committed to developing cooperation with the states of East and Southeast Asia based on consultations, the joint achievement of common prosperity, and ensuring equal access for all countries to its benefits. While cooperation within the SCO currently does not entail full economic integration, efforts are underway to deepen regional economic harmonisation and facilitate the free movement of goods, capital, services, and technologies among member states, in alignment with the aims and objectives of ASEAN.
The Secretary-General extended an invitation to the SCO, ASEAN, and East Asian countries to further enhance political interaction, promote cultural exchanges, and strive to strengthen interconnectivity, combining efforts to make substantial contributions to long-term security and prosperity.
The 19th East Asia Summit was inaugurated by Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone. It was attended by leaders and senior officials from China, Russia, India, the Republic of Korea, Japan, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and other countries. The SCO Secretary-General and the President of the European Council participated in the summit as guests of honour.
During his visit to Vientiane, Zhang Ming also attended a gala reception organised by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone.