China held the first multilateral meeting of trade union federations under the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Beijing on Thursday, with representatives sharing views on improving workers' benefits and creating a fairer working environment.

China currently holds the rotating presidency of the SCO for 2024-25. The meeting provided a platform for trade union federations from SCO member countries to exchange ideas and promote the "Shanghai Spirit", which emphasizes mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for cultural diversity and the pursuit of common development.

Xu Liuping, vice-president of the All-China Federation of Trade Unions, said in a keynote speech at the opening ceremony that the federation — now celebrating the 100th anniversary of its founding — has made every effort to protect workers' rights, enhance skills and competencies, and help workers resolve problems.

The federation has also played an active role in promoting harmonious labor relations and improving services in the new era, he said.

Xu added that the federation will continue to uphold the Shanghai Spirit and cooperate with SCO trade union federations to advance global labor governance, improve workers' benefits and create a more equitable working environment.

Representatives from SCO member countries, including Belarus, India and Kazakhstan, also shared ideas on strengthening exchanges and tackling future labor-related challenges through joint efforts.

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