Emphasizing the significance of regional stability, PM Shehbaz pointed out that “a stable Afghanistan is essential” for leveraging trade opportunities among SCO members.
SCO Summit 2024: PM Shehbaz calls for expansion of Belt and Road Initiative. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit on Wednesday, advocating for the expansion of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to enhance regional connectivity and economic cooperation.
The SCO, which includes member states such as China, India, Russia, Pakistan, Iran, and several Central Asian nations, is a key platform for discussing trade, security, and economic collaboration. Pakistan became a full member during the 2017 summit held in Kazakhstan.
Key Highlights from the Summit
In his address, PM Shehbaz emphasized the importance of infrastructure development, stating, “Flagship projects like the Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor should be expanded, focusing on road, rail, and digital infrastructure.” He underscored that these initiatives should not be viewed through a political lens but rather as essential for enhancing collective connectivity in the region.
The Prime Minister called for the SCO to adopt a strategy for energy cooperation by 2030 and to establish an Association of Investors to facilitate economic integration among member states.
Addressing Critical Issues
PM Shehbaz also highlighted pressing challenges such as poverty and climate change. He characterized poverty as a “moral imperative,” stressing the need for collective action to alleviate the plight of millions living in poverty within the SCO region. He noted Pakistan’s efforts in leading initiatives aimed at poverty reduction and promoting sustainable development.
On climate change, the Prime Minister shared the devastating impacts of the 2022 floods in Pakistan, which resulted in substantial economic losses. He called for collaborative disaster preparedness efforts and reforms to the global financial architecture to foster equitable development.
Stability in Afghanistan
Emphasizing the significance of regional stability, PM Shehbaz pointed out that “a stable Afghanistan is essential” for leveraging trade opportunities among SCO members. He urged the international community to support humanitarian efforts while encouraging the Afghan government to adopt a more inclusive political approach.
Gaza Conflict
In a poignant closing remark, PM Shehbaz addressed the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the establishment of a Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders. He stressed the SCO’s role in prioritizing collaboration over political divisions, urging member states to work hand in hand.
Chairmanship Transition
At the conclusion of the summit, PM Shehbaz handed over the chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of Government to Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, pledging Pakistan’s full support for the Russian presidency.
Engaging Discussions
Throughout the two-day summit, leaders engaged in discussions on trade, economic cooperation, and regional connectivity, with key documents signed to advance collaborative efforts. The summit also featured bilateral meetings, including one between PM Shehbaz and Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, highlighting the importance of dialogue among member states.
Looking Ahead
As the SCO continues to evolve as a significant player in regional and global politics, PM Shehbaz’s call for enhanced connectivity and economic integration signals Pakistan’s commitment to fostering cooperation among member states for a more prosperous future. The summit reflects a collective aspiration to navigate contemporary challenges and build a resilient, interconnected Eurasia.
