SCO: Pakistan's big success on the diplomatic front

The 30th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Islamabad was a resounding success, earning Pakistan well-deserved praise for hosting the event seamlessly. The summit brought together leaders from China, Russia, India, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Belarus, with Mongolia participating as an observer, eyeing SCO membership.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warmly welcomed the guests, highlighting the SCO's significant global presence, representing 40% of the world's population. He emphasized the collective potential to boost regional economic growth, improve quality of life, and ensure stability through collaborative efforts. PM Shehbaz Sharif emphasized Pakistan's commitment to regional peace, preventing Afghan territory misuse for terrorism, and humanitarian aid.

He urged SCO countries to jointly combat poverty, leverage transport and energy opportunities, and develop infrastructure. Pakistan's Economic Corridor entry will boost regional development and expand global connectivity through CPEC, showcasing Pakistan's strategic importance in facilitating cooperation and economic partnerships.

The Prime Ministers of eight countries, including China, Russia, and Pakistan, joined Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar, international delegates, and leaders at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization meeting. Hosting the SCO proved beneficial for Pakistan, reviving its economy and fostering stable trade relations - a timely and much-needed development.

Under the slogan "One Earth, One Family, and One Future," the SCO meeting tackled key areas including Trade and Economy, Culture and Environment, Security Issues, Mutual Cooperation and Organizational Issues.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization is a vital platform for Pakistan, offering a massive economic bloc that safeguards its economic interests through trade agreements. As chair of the SCO Council of Heads of Government, Pakistan showcased its leadership by hosting the 23rd SCO meeting, highlighting its strategic geographical location as a natural hub for trade and investment collaboration.

Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang's visit to Pakistan marked a significant milestone after an 11-year hiatus, demonstrating China's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and cooperation. His visit was timed perfectly, arriving a day before the Shanghai Cooperation Organization meeting, highlighting the importance of Pakistan-China relations in the regional context.

During his visit, Prime Minister Li Qiang attended a reception ceremony at the Prime Minister's House, where 13 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) were signed across various sectors, including Security, Education, Agriculture, Communication, Industry and Trade, Human Resource Development, Science and Technology, Currency Exchange.

Additionally, several contracts were signed to solidify these agreements, showcasing the determination of both nations to foster a stronger partnership. Meanwhile, Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang, alongside Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, virtually inaugurated the Gwadar International Airport.

Mr. Li Qiang expressed his determination to deepen and strengthen the strategic partnership with Pakistan. During his visit, consultations on the speedy completion of CPEC Phase 2 projects and participation in the SCO meeting in Islamabad aimed to protect the interests of China and Pakistan, while also having positive effects globally.

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin's visit to Islamabad for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization meeting was significant, as it also included informal discussions on bilateral relations with Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. However, the real highlight was Indian Foreign Minister Subramaniam Jaishankar's presence, marking a notable shift in India-Pakistan relations, which have been strained for the past five years.

Jaishankar's participation in the SCO meeting was initially seen as a multilateral engagement, but his presence was warmly received, sparking hopes for improved relations between the two nations. Notably, there were no bilateral meetings scheduled between Indian and Pakistani officials, making Jaishankar's attendance all the more remarkable.

The Indian Foreign Minister's gratitude to Pakistan's Prime Minister for excellent hospitality was an encouraging gesture, signalling a potential thaw in relations. Improved ties between India and Pakistan could have far-reaching benefits, including boosting regional trade, relieving tensions, and increasing investment opportunities.

Historically, India-Pakistan relations have been complicated, with territorial disputes, cross-border terrorism, and ceasefire violations. However, recent developments suggest a willingness to engage and potentially revive confidence-building measures. India-Pakistan relations could have significant implications for regional stability and economic growth.

The recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization meeting was a significant event, especially with the participation of the prime ministers of China and Russia, two global superpowers and veto powers in the United Nations. Their presence underscored the importance of the meeting and demonstrated Pakistan's successful diplomacy and strategic efforts.

As an advocate for international relations and peace, it's truly encouraging to see Pakistan taking proactive steps towards fostering regional cooperation. The SCO provides a vital platform for member states to collaborate on key issues like counter-terrorism, economic development, and regional stability.

Pakistan's recent diplomatic successes are indeed a promising sign for the country's future. The visit of Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Sri Anwar Ibrahim and the signing of $2.2 billion worth of projects and memoranda of understanding during Saudi Investment Minister Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih's visit showcase Pakistan's growing international partnerships. This development will significantly boost Pakistan's economy and regional influence.