PM Shehbaz Sharif Highlights Regional Cooperation and Pakistan’s Challenges at SCO Summit
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to regional cooperation, sovereignty, and stability during his address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China.
Arriving in China on Saturday, PM Shehbaz emphasized Pakistan’s support for multilateralism, dialogue, and diplomacy, while calling for respect for international treaties among SCO members. He stressed that uninterrupted access to water as per existing agreements is vital for regional cooperation, in an apparent reference to India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.
Focus on Peace and Stability
PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s aim for stable relationships with all neighbours, advocating dialogue over conflict. He urged SCO members to engage in comprehensive discussions on outstanding disputes, highlighting Pakistan’s adherence to UN and SCO charters and its commitment to peace.
“Pakistan sees the SCO as a platform that reflects our commitment to regional cooperation and integration,” he said, praising China’s leadership and initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and CPEC.
Floods and Humanitarian Appeal
The prime minister also highlighted devastating floods affecting Pakistan’s major rivers, resulting in significant loss of lives, livestock, and infrastructure. He expressed gratitude for the international support, including China’s assistance, and commended the resilience of the Pakistani people.
Terrorism and Security Concerns
PM Shehbaz addressed the issue of terrorism, citing Pakistan’s evidence of foreign involvement in the March Jaffar Express hijacking and other attacks in Balochistan and KP provinces. He condemned terrorism in all forms and highlighted Pakistan’s sacrifices in combating terrorism, including over 90,000 lives lost and $152 billion in economic losses.
Afghanistan and Regional Connectivity
The premier voiced Pakistan’s support for a peaceful and stable Afghanistan and emphasized the importance of regional connectivity, including land, air, and rail transport corridors. He noted that the expansion of CPEC could serve as a practical example of the SCO’s vision for economic integration.
Global Issues
PM Shehbaz also condemned Israel’s attacks on Iran and the ongoing bloodshed in Gaza, calling for an immediate end to violence. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for a UN-mandated two-state solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with pre-1967 borders and Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.
The prime minister concluded by acknowledging the warm hospitality of China and extending felicitations to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan on their national days, underscoring the spirit of solidarity and cooperation among SCO members.
