Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Monday reiterated that Pakistan remains firmly committed to the principles and objectives of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Charter. He stated that Pakistan's journey within the SCO, from observer to a proactive full member since 2017, reflects its unwavering commitment to multilateralism and confidence in the region's potential.
SCO's 25th Anniversary
On the auspicious occasion of the 25th anniversary of the SCO, Dar extended heartfelt congratulations to the SCO family. Since its establishment in 2001, the SCO has evolved into a pivotal platform for regional cooperation, playing an important role in promoting regional peace, security, stability, economic cooperation, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges among member states.
Dar appreciated the SCO's approach to respecting international law and promoting good neighbourliness. The milestone of the 25th anniversary confirms the enduring power of the “Shanghai Spirit,” which continues to guide members through mutual trust, equality, respect for cultural diversity, shared development, and constructive engagement.
Future Leadership Role
He announced that Pakistan is looking forward to assuming the chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of States (CHS) in September this year and hosting the Summit in 2027. This reflects trust and confidence in Pakistan's leadership role regionally and globally. Pakistan will continue to advance a forward-looking and action-oriented agenda aimed at enhancing economic collaboration, promoting regional connectivity, and deepening mutual understanding among peoples.
Pakistan has proudly contributed to the work of the SCO, hosting a meeting of the Council of Heads of Government (CHG) in October 2024 in Islamabad. Currently, Pakistan is steering the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (SCO-RATS) as its chair for 2025-2026. As the permanent chair of the SCO Special Working Group on Poverty Alleviation, Pakistan aims to improve living standards across the region.
Strategic Location and CPEC
Dar highlighted that Pakistan's strategic geographical location serves as a natural bridge for Eurasian connectivity. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) serves as a model for trans-regional economic and trade integration among SCO countries. He deeply appreciated the SCO's role in fostering regional peace and stability. As a frontline state that has made unparalleled sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, Pakistan values the SCO's collaborative framework in combating the 'three evils' of terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
Beyond security, Dar noted that the organization's efforts in economic growth are laying the foundation for a resilient regional economy. The SCO's promotion of digital innovation, energy security projects, and mutual payments in national currencies is commendable. Pakistan is eager to contribute to regional connectivity, trade and investment, food security, climate resilience, public health, education, digital innovation, and sustainable development.
Dar concluded, “We envision a prosperous future built on social cohesion and mutual respect. Let us continue to work together to transform our region into a center of peace, harmony, and shared prosperity for our future generations.”
