Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Islamabad, urging for the expansion of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The SCO, consisting of various countries including China, India, Russia, and Pakistan, discussed key issues of economic collaboration and regional development.
PM Shehbaz emphasized on flagship projects like the BRI and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor for enhancing connectivity and infrastructure. He highlighted the importance of economic collaboration within the SCO framework, focusing on poverty alleviation, climate change, and disaster preparedness.
The summit also saw discussions on a strategy for Energy Cooperation 2030 and the establishment of an Association of Investors. PM Shehbaz stressed the need for reforms in global financial architecture to foster equitable development and proposed an alternative funding mechanism.
With leaders from SCO member states and international organizations attending, the summit aimed to strengthen regional cooperation, trade, and connectivity. The focus was on forging concrete action plans and promoting socio-economic progress.
Overall, the SCO summit under PM Shehbaz’s leadership aimed to enhance mutual cooperation, address key challenges, and promote a shared vision of prosperity and stability in the region.
‘Poverty a moral imperative, climate change an existential crisis’
Addressing crucial issues like poverty, climate change, and disaster management, PM Shehbaz highlighted the urgent need for collective action to address root causes of poverty and promote sustainable development in the region. He emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in disaster preparedness and economic integration.
The summit also discussed the impact of unilateral coercive measures and protectionist policies on global economic growth and emphasized the need for reforms in financial structures for equitable development.
PM Shehbaz’s vision for the SCO summit aimed to strengthen anti-terrorist measures, enhance regional connectivity, and foster people-to-people ties for greater harmony and prosperity.
SCO a ‘beacon of multilateralism’
With a strategic focus on regional peace, stability, and enhanced connectivity, the SCO summit served as a platform for diverse nations to collaborate on issues of mutual interest. PM Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to promoting prosperity through unity and regional cooperation.
The summit also underscored the potential for economic growth, enhanced trade, and improved quality of life through coordinated action and strengthened cooperation among member states.
Overall, the SCO summit led by PM Shehbaz Sharif set a positive tone for enhanced collaboration, economic growth, and regional stability within the SCO framework.
Attending members and Summit highlights
The summit saw participation from leaders of various SCO member states and international organizations, focusing on key issues of economic collaboration, trade, and regional connectivity. Discussions centered around the approval of the organization’s budget, economic cooperation, and global development.
The presence of leaders like China’s Premier Li Qiang and discussions on Afghanistan’s stability and trade opportunities highlighted the importance of regional cooperation and shared prosperity among SCO member states.
Through bilateral meetings, discussions on poverty alleviation, disaster management, and economic reforms, the SCO summit led by PM Shehbaz set the stage for enhanced regional cooperation, economic growth, and sustainable development in the Eurasian region.