ISLAMABAD – The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation across various sectors, including security, trade, economy, investment, and cultural exchanges, aiming to promote a peaceful, secure, prosperous, and ecologically sustainable planet.
This was highlighted in the Joint Communiqué issued after the conclusion of the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting held in Islamabad, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The meeting was attended by leaders from SCO member states, including China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, and India, as well as Observer and Special Guest states like Mongolia and Turkmenistan.
In their discussions, the leaders emphasized the need for optimizing the region’s potential in areas such as green development, the digital economy, healthcare, agriculture, connectivity, energy, science and technology, and climate change. They also underscored the importance of principles such as respect for sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and the peaceful resolution of disputes between states.
The member states agreed to enhance efforts to counter protectionist trade measures, develop a transparent multilateral trading system, and support China’s “One Belt, One Road” initiative. Additionally, they discussed establishing key financial institutions, including the SCO Development Bank and SCO Development Fund, to promote regional economic growth.
A notable aspect of the discussions focused on cooperation in addressing global challenges like climate change, food security, and public health. The leaders also pledged to promote cultural and humanitarian ties, including initiatives to foster youth engagement and sports activities, with proposals such as holding a “Silk Road” mini-football tournament for SCO member states.
In his address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Palestine, urging the international community to fulfill its responsibilities toward ensuring peace. He also highlighted the importance of regional connectivity for economic growth and assured Pakistan’s full support for the SCO’s goals and initiatives.
At the conclusion of the summit, the heads of government signed a joint declaration, reaffirming their collective commitment to enhancing trade, economic cooperation, and the functioning of the SCO’s permanent bodies. Following the summit, Indian Minister for External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s hospitality during his participation in the meeting.
SCO Secretary General Zhang Ming, along with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, commended Pakistan for its excellent arrangements, noting the successful discussions on trade, investment, energy, and agriculture among member states. Dar emphasized the atmosphere of mutual respect and cooperation during the meeting, which strengthened the resolve of the SCO leadership to work together for a sustainable future.
In a separate meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in multiple sectors like trade, industry, energy, connectivity, science, and education. Both leaders acknowledged the positive momentum in Pakistan-Russia relations and pledged to strengthen ties further through multilateral forums such as the United Nations and the SCO. Shehbaz also thanked Russia for its support of Pakistan’s BRICS membership bid, signaling deeper collaboration on global platforms.
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