"The SCO is at an initial stage and is faced with a lot of work concerning the development of its mechanisms. Therefore its members have decided not to admit new members for the time being," said Zhang, adding that it will follow the principle of openness and accept more members in the future.

The May 29 summit will ratify a number of documents on the development of the SCO, including the mechanism of meetings of heads of state and prime ministers, the establishment of a secretariat in Beijing by the end of this year, and decide on the SCO secretary-general.

Turning to the post-war situation in Iraq, Zhang reiterated that the focus should be on maintaining peace and stability in Iraq, the Gulf region and the Middle East as well as the long-term development of the country.

Zhang said China has adopted a constructive attitude and remains in close contact with other UN Security Council members on the post-war situation in Iraq.

She stressed China's stance that the UN should play an important role in the reconstruction of Iraq.

Zhang also briefed the press on the upcoming visit by Afghan Vice-President Nimartullah Shaharani between May 26 and 30.

Zhang said the two countries will exchange views on "how to help Afghanistan in reconstruction," which will result in the signing of several agreements on economic and technical co-operation.

(China Daily May 24, 2003)