ISLAMABAD: Pakistan will assume the chairmanship of SCO Council of Heads of States (CHS) in September this year and will also host the Summit in 2027, in Islamabad.
“This is a reflection of 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”, said Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said a statement from his office.
The SCO consists of 10 full member states. The primary members are China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, Iran, and Belarus. The organization serves as a major political, economic, and security alliance across Eurasia. Today marked the 25th anniversary of (SCO) and the foreign minister expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the SCO family.
“Since its establishment in 2001, the SCO has evolved into a pivotal platform for regional cooperation. It is playing an important role in promoting regional peace, security, stability, economic cooperation, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges among its member States. The milestone of 25th anniversary confirms the enduring power of the “Shanghai Spirit,” which continues to guide us through mutual trust, equality, respect for cultural diversity, shared development and constructive engagement”, he said.
He recalled Pakistan’s journey within the SCO, from observer to a proactive full member since 2017, which reflected its unwavering commitment to multilateralism and confidence in the potential of our region.
“Pakistan remains firmly committed to the principles and objectives of the SCO Charter. We appreciate the SCO’s approach to respect international law and promote good neighborliness. Pakistan has proudly contributed to the work of SCO. We hosted a meeting of the Council of Heads of Government (CHG) in October 2024 in Islamabad. We are currently steering the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (SCO-RATS) as its chair for 2025-2026”, pointed out the foreign minister.
As the permanent chair of the SCO Special Working Group on Poverty Alleviation, Pakistan aims to improve the living standards of millions across our region. Its 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. We deeply appreciate 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”, said Dar.
Beyond security, the organization’s efforts for economic growth are laying the foundation for a resilient regional economy. 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 as it envisions 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”, said Dar.
