The hosting of the Shanghai Conference in Pakistan is a significant political and diplomatic success. Given Pakistan’s current situation, the participation of all ten member countries of the organization, particularly the arrival of Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar, has highlighted the importance of this conference and its host, Pakistan.
At a time when Pakistan is trying to create new positive opportunities in regional relations based on geo-politics, geo-economics, and geo-security, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) conference has undoubtedly played an important role. China played a major role in the success of this conference, especially behind-the-scenes diplomacy ensuring India’s participation, which is crucial for future stability in Pakistan-China relations and the political and economic stability of the region.
While the politics of many global and regional countries is marked by instability, tensions, conflicts, and a strategy of isolating opponents rather than engaging in dialogue, the joint declaration of the conference emphasized a key point: issues should be resolved through dialogue, not force. This is a message that larger global and regional powers must understand that current policies are contributing to domestic instability.
The declaration also stressed the need for a “joint mechanism and collective strategy” to address political, economic, security, and terrorism-related issues. Without mutual cooperation, neither will we be able to advance our interests, nor will there be stability and economic growth in the region.
Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar’s arrival created a positive impression, though it should not be viewed as a major breakthrough between the two countries, since his mandate was limited to participating in the SCO meeting and delivering a measured speech. However, his visit has broken the deadlock and mistrust that existed previously, opening up new avenues for progress. Thus, improving relations with India through diplomatic efforts should remain a priority for Pakistan.
The conference also highlighted Pakistan’s emphasis on resolving the Afghan crisis and conveyed to the global community that Afghanistan cannot be stabilized without their cooperation. China’s prime minister reiterated the importance of eradicating terrorism and urged the interim Afghan government to fulfill its responsibilities.
The success of the Shanghai Conference could bring significant benefits to Pakistan, particularly if the country moves forward with a coherent narrative and effective implementation of strategies addressing political, economic, and security challenges. This could lead to regional stability and increased global investment in Pakistan.
While Pakistan can celebrate the success of hosting the SCO conference, it also needs to focus on internal accountability and adopt forward-thinking strategies. The success of the conference was greatly supported by Pakistan’s security institutions and establishment, without whose help it would not have been possible. However, political and military leadership must come together to formulate a strategy that reduces internal tensions and avoids turning political differences into rivalries.
It is essential to recognize that Pakistan’s internal challenges are visible to the world, and in today’s globalized world and media landscape, it is impossible to hide or cover up domestic issues. If Pakistan does not move beyond outdated politics and institutional practices, the joint declaration of the Shanghai Conference will have little impact on the country’s domestic politics. Regional relations can only expand if there is political and economic stability at home, which will serve as a foundation for future diplomatic successes.
The world is undergoing significant changes, with many countries focusing on improving relations based on economic development rather than dwelling on past grievances. Pakistan must realize that economic growth cannot be achieved without first ensuring internal political stability. Pakistan must work hard to break out of regional isolation and address the extraordinary challenges it faces with extraordinary measures, including tough decisions rather than superficial ones.
The state system requires major reforms. Pakistan cannot progress by continuing with business as usual. Ignoring constitutional and legal principles will only exacerbate internal challenges. A strong, stable, and credible narrative on politics, economics, and security is needed one that emphasizes mutual cooperation rather than threats. Contradictory policies on the diplomatic front will only distance Pakistan from new opportunities. It is crucial to move beyond contradictions and chart a new path for the future.