Chief justices seek enhanced judicial ties

China is committed to enhancing international judicial cooperation with Central Asian nations to combat various crimes and foster a law-based, international business environment, Zhang Jun, president of China's Supreme People's Court, said on Tuesday.

Speaking at a meeting of chief justices from China and Central Asian countries in Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, Zhang called for deeper judicial cooperation to address terrorism, separatism, extremism, drug trafficking, transnational crime and cybercrime, all aimed at promoting regional security and stability.

Zhang emphasized that the rule of law is a vital component of the Belt and Road Initiative, noting that judicial collaboration helps to ensure both security and economic prosperity in the region. Chinese courts have signed multiple memorandums with their Central Asian counterparts to prevent and combat transnational crimes such as drug trafficking, telecom fraud, money laundering and gambling, all to build a stable social environment for the Silk Road Economic Belt.

Zhang also highlighted the commitment of Chinese courts to protecting the rights of both domestic and foreign parties equally, providing inclusive and efficient judicial services.

"These measures ensure that all business entities can participate in market competition fairly and receive equal legal protection," he said.

The Supreme People's Court has led initiatives such as establishing international commercial courts and an international commercial expert committee, streamlining processes for resolving cross-border commercial disputes. Additionally, Chinese courts have bolstered their foreign-related intellectual property systems, increasing punitive damages for infringement.

Zhang also spoke about China's judicial efforts in promoting green and sustainable development, saying the country's ecological judicial protection efforts have gained international recognition. The integration of modern technologies such as big data, cloud computing, artificial intelligence and blockchain into court operations has also enhanced judicial efficiency.

Bobojonzoda Azamjon, a judge from Tajikistan's Supreme Court, praised the cooperation between China and Central Asian nations, saying it has contributed significantly to regional peace, stability and the establishment of a fair global order. He added that such judicial collaboration is key to improving the resolution of economic and commercial disputes.

Kholiqmurodzoda Daler, another judge from Tajikistan, stressed the importance of legal cooperation in strengthening good neighborly relations between China and Central Asia. He noted that as economic ties grow and commercial disputes increase, legal collaboration becomes increasingly essential.

Participants at the meeting exchanged insights on topics such as environmental justice, international investment disputes and the fight against crimes, including terrorism, corruption and cybercrime, all of which align with the shared interests of China and Central Asian nations.

Ma Qianni contributed to this story.