A Call for Cooperation: Shehbaz Sharif Addresses the SCO Meeting
At the 23rd meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of Government in Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for enhanced regional connectivity and cooperation among member states. He emphasized the importance of creating a well-connected and prosperous region through collaborative efforts focused on poverty alleviation, climate action, and business collaboration.
The Prime Minister highlighted the necessity of establishing a robust connectivity framework within the SCO to boost trade and promote the vision of a connected Euro-Asia. He advocated for the expansion of significant projects such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the International North-South Transport Corridor, which would develop vital road, rail, and digital infrastructure.
P.c. China Pakistan Economic Corridor
Shehbaz Sharif also underlined the significance of a stable Afghanistan, asserting that stability in the region is essential for fully realizing potential opportunities. He called on the international community to provide urgent humanitarian support for Afghanistan and urged the interim government to prevent the misuse of its territory for terrorism.
Addressing the pressing issue of climate change, the Prime Minister described it as an existential crisis that transcends borders. He called for prioritizing environmental cooperation within the SCO to build resilience against climate-induced disasters. He welcomed the recent SCO agreement on environmental protection and proposed simulation exercises with SCO partners to enhance disaster preparedness across the region.
Furthermore, he discussed the need for reforming the global financial architecture and trade regimes to foster development. He proposed establishing an SCO alternative development funding mechanism to revive stalled projects and encouraged member states to foster a conducive environment for business and investment.
The growing consensus among SCO states to utilize mutual currencies for settlements was noted as a promising development. PM Shehbaz Sharif expressed his firm belief in the necessity of a stronger and more effective SCO to achieve sustainable development.
Emphasizing the rich cultural diversity within the SCO, the Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan's commitment to promoting people-to-people ties and cultural exchanges, which foster understanding and cooperation. He concluded that the SCO holds immense potential for driving socio-economic progress, enhancing regional peace and stability, and improving the quality of life for its citizens.