"The discussion on establishing such an inter-state structure that would react to catastrophes in the Asia-Pacific region is going on within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization," Itar-Tass cited Yury Brazhnikov, director of the Russian Emergency Situations Ministry’s international department, as saying.

He mentioned the devastating 12 May earthquake in China, which has claimed more than 55,000 lives.

"We already have a good contract and law base within the SCO framework. Besides, Russia and China have bilateral cooperation agreements," Brazhnikov said.

Established in 2001, the SCO has served to coordinate and promote cooperation between its member and observer countries in security and economic spheres.

The SCO includes China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Iran, Pakistan, India, Mongolia and Afghanistan are observer states.