TASHKENT -- The first Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Plus Expert Dialogue on Security Issues concluded Friday in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

Held under the theme "Security in the Era of Digital Transformation: Countering Terrorism and Extremism Amid the Development of New Technologies", the event brought together over 180 representatives from the security services of SCO member states, observer countries, and dialogue partners.

In an address to the participants, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev stressed the need to ensure information security, protect critical infrastructure and strengthen countries' resilience to emerging threats. He noted that while the rapid development of digital technologies creats vast opportunities for progress, it also exposes countries to new vulnerabilities.

During plenary sessions, participants shared national practices and voiced support for establishing effective cooperation mechanisms to combat terrorist activities and curb the spread of extremism and radicalism in digital space. Besides, participants highlighted the potential of the "SCO Plus" format to bring expert approaches closer together, share practical experience and prepare joint recommendations on security issues.

Delegates paid particular attention to the risks associated with the misuse of artificial intelligence, digital platforms, and other technological tools for terrorist propaganda, recruitment and the coordination of unlawful activities.

In a final joint communique, participants proposed conducting research on the impact of emerging technologies on terrorist threats, compiling reviews of effective preventive practices, and organizing joint thematic seminars and professional development programs.