The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit is poised to be a genuine game-changer and a significant milestone for Pakistan.
The 23rd summit of the heads of government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization has concluded, and a joint declaration has been released. The declaration emphasizes the principle of “One Earth, One Family, One Future,” and it calls for a non-discriminatory and transparent global trading system while opposing unilateral trade sanctions.
In fact, the primary goal of the SCO’s establishment is to reject the notion of a solitary superpower in the world. Its key objectives include promoting good neighborly relations among member states, fostering cooperation in trade, science and technology, education, energy, and tourism, and collectively ensuring peace and security in the region. Following the Islamic Summit Conference, hosting the SCO summit in Islamabad is an important milestone for Pakistan.
The SCO summit will be a genuine game-changer and an important milestone for Pakistan. During the summit, SCO member states focused on enhancing economic ties. This significant summit will undoubtedly lead to an increase in regional trade and poverty reduction through collaborative projects in agriculture, vocational training, and infrastructure development. It will also address regional security concerns, including the conflicts in Afghanistan and Kashmir, with a special focus on climate change and the promotion of carbon trading and low-carbon technologies.
Pakistan’s precarious economic situation, characterized by rising inflation, dwindling foreign reserves, and sluggish growth, necessitates new economic partnerships, and this is where the economic dimension of the SCO comes into play. Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar visited Pakistan, spent some time here, and attended the SCO summit. While this cannot be considered a major breakthrough, it can certainly be said that the Indian Foreign Minister chose to participate in the SCO summit in person rather than via video link. The relations between the two countries are not good, and normalization of ties is not possible until fundamental issues are resolved.
The Kashmir issue remains the most significant concern, and until this matter is resolved according to UN resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiris, the situation cannot normalize. India has played a significant role in deteriorating the law and order situation in Pakistan, continually trying to disrupt the peace process by supporting terrorist groups through Afghanistan.
Pakistan has consistently presented its case before international organizations, providing undeniable evidence and documentation at every opportunity. However, the world often prioritizes financial interests over factual realities, leading to a skewed perspective. Therefore, resolving fundamental issues is crucial for improving relations between Pakistan and India. Dialogue is one path toward achieving this.
The arrival of the Chinese Prime Minister and his participation in the summit has proven to be an auspicious sign for us. In this context, the importance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) can be gauged from the fact that Pakistan is also considering collaborative plans with China to eradicate terrorism. This indicates that terrorists are not just enemies of Pakistan, but also pose a threat to China’s interests; therefore, their elimination is a joint effort by both countries. Pakistan has not been able to fully capitalize on the positive opportunities that arose after the withdrawal of U.S. allied forces from Afghanistan.
For two decades, we were supporters and hosts of the Afghans, and now the situation has reached a point where Afghanistan has become a facilitator for our terrorists. Afghan territory has turned into a safe haven for TTP and other Pakistan-hostile groups. Afghans show us their arrogance, yet we remain a safe haven for them, with millions of Afghans residing here. They use Pakistani passports and conduct business here, but due to our vague and unrealistic policies, they exhibit disrespect towards us. We appear unable to seize the opportunities presented to us.
The SCO conference will prove to be a genuine game-changer and an important milestone for Pakistan. The attendance of leaders from China, Russia, and other countries signifies the global confidence in Pakistan. Now, the SCO summit will project a positive image of Pakistan in the world, serving as a vital opportunity for economic recovery and strengthening relations with regional countries. Pakistan is committed to enhancing trade with other nations through economic diplomacy. This two-day highly successful summit not only demonstrates Pakistan’s diplomatic achievements but also provides significant opportunities for the country’s economic development. The conference allowed Pakistan to highlight its policies on the global stage and strengthen its role in the international economic system.
On the other hand, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller reacted to the SCO summit held in Pakistan, stating that the United States respects every country’s right to participate in sovereign groups. The SCO provides a significant platform for Central Asian countries to come together, not only to address regional issues but also to make progress in matters of economy, energy, defense, and security, and to collaboratively resolve all economic development, defense capabilities, and security issues among member states.
In the future, Pakistan will gain further opportunities for cooperation and economic development through the SCO. The organization’s platform allows Pakistan to better utilize its geographical position and strengthen its relations with global powers. The SCO summit was attended by multiple countries, and hosting this summit will undoubtedly benefit Pakistan on the international stage. There are also border disputes between India and China, as well as between India and Pakistan.
Additionally, Pakistan has border disputes with Afghanistan. Just as there are regional groups in Europe and the United States that solve their issues through mutual cooperation, the SCO’s fundamental purpose is to promote counter-terrorism, extremism, and regional peace. Both countries can engage in dialogue on these issues and listen to each other’s security concerns, which may help reduce tensions.
Political stability is essential for attracting foreign investment. The political parties in the government must accelerate their efforts to establish stability in the country, while opposition parties should also come together to resolve issues through dialogue for the betterment of the country. Frequent protests and demonstrations tarnish the country’s image and can damage investor confidence, which poses a risk of economic loss. I urge all political parties to unite for the best interest of the country and meet to address economic and developmental challenges, setting aside political differences to solve issues through negotiations. This will foster political stability and potentially increase investment. If negative politics and obstinacy persist, the nation may reject you.
Hosting the Shanghai Cooperation Organization has elevated Pakistan’s stature and highlighted its diplomatic significance, generating bright prospects for economic development. It is essential that we capitalize on such opportunities. A significant Russian delegation has arrived here; we should initiate a new chapter in our relationship with Russia. With China’s presence, it will be easier to engage with Russia. We must approach these matters with unity and seek opportunities that align with our interests, translating them into actionable plans.