SCO Summit in Islamabad: Leaders Unite on Connectivity

SCO concluded the 23rd summit in Islamabad by

issuing a joint statement focusing on enhancing

regional connectivity and economic cooperation

News Desk

Family photo of Prime Minister of Pakistan Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif and Heads of delegations of the 23^rd SCO Heads of Governmnet Meeting in Islamabad on 16 October 2024. (Courtesy APP)

Islamabad: Leaders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) concluded the 23rd summit in Islamabad with a joint statement. They focused on improving regional connections and economic cooperation. Key projects mentioned include the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and the International North-South Transport Corridor. These projects are vital for boosting infrastructure, trade, and digital links in the SCO region.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif addresses the 23^rd SCO council of Heads of Governments Meeting in Islamabad. (Courtesy APP)

PM Shehbaz Sharif Calls for Connectivity and Stability

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who chaired the summit, urged SCO members to invest in regional connections. He stressed the importance of CPEC and BRI for shared progress.

He said, “A stable Afghanistan is essential for regional trade.” Additionally, he noted that humanitarian support and inclusive governance in Afghanistan are important for long-term stability. He also called for efforts to reduce poverty and improve disaster preparedness after recent floods in Pakistan.

Prime Minister of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif receiving the Chinese Premier Li Qiang upon the venue of the 23^rd SCO Council of Heads of Government in Islamabad.( Courtesy APP)

Chinese Premier Li Qiang Emphasizes Economic Collaboration

Chinese Premier Li Qiang reaffirmed China’s support for the BRI and regional cooperation. He said that China would continue to back infrastructure and digital connectivity in the SCO. He pointed out that the CPEC is a great example of successful teamwork.

Li also mentioned China’s willingness to strengthen energy partnerships and promote green energy solutions among SCO countries. He stated, “We are committed to working together to build a strong regional economy.”

Prime Minister of Russia, Mikhail Mishustin addresses the 23rd SCO Council of Heads of Governments Meeting in Islamabad. (Courtesy APP)

Russian PM Mishustin Highlights Trade and Energy Cooperation

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin spoke about the need for stronger trade and energy cooperation within the SCO. He called for a new energy strategy for 2030. This plan would help SCO countries work together on sustainable energy and improve regional energy security.

Mishustin took over the SCO chairmanship from Pakistan at the end of the summit.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif receiving the India Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar upon the arrival at the venue of the 23^rd SCO Council of Heads of Government Meeting in Islamabad. (Courtesy APP)

Indian Minister Jaishankar Addresses Terrorism Concerns

India’s Minister for External Affairs, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, highlighted the need to fight terrorism. He emphasized the importance of sovereignty and territorial integrity within SCO states. Thus, he called for stronger joint efforts to tackle terrorism and extremism for regional stability.

Joint Statement Highlights Key Initiatives

The joint statement called for better energy, trade, and finance cooperation. It proposed creating an “Energy Cooperation 2030” strategy and an “Association of Investors” to drive regional growth. SCO leaders stressed using local currencies for trade to reduce the impact of global financial disruptions.

A policeman stands guard at the Red Zone on the eve of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Islamabad (Courtesy AFP)

Lockdown Situation Due to Security Concerns

Due to security worries, a lockdown was imposed across Islamabad during the summit. Consequently, security personnel restricted movement near the convention center and other key areas to keep delegates safe. The lockdown included traffic restrictions and checkpoints, which caused some inconvenience for residents. However, authorities said these measures were necessary to maintain order and ensure the summit’s success.

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