Dushanbe: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has emphasized the importance of targeted investments in the energy and transport sectors to foster seamless economic integration across the region. Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting in Dushanbe, Dar highlighted the potential for significant economic collaboration among member nations.

According to Radio Pakistan, Dar underscored Pakistan’s commitment to expanding investments in high-potential industries such as agriculture, mining and minerals, and information technology. He advocated for a resilient and interconnected economic future for all SCO countries. Dar pointed to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor as a valuable opportunity for SCO members to engage in and expedite the process of comprehensive economic integration.

Dar also stressed the importance of future cooperation within the SCO framework focusing on Artificial Intelligence, digital transformation, innovation, energy cooperation, and international information security. He reiterated the call for using national currencies for mutual settlements and advocated for the establishment of the SCO Development Bank, Development Fund, and an Investment Fund to bolster development initiatives and mitigate international financial shocks.

Addressing regional security, Dar highlighted the necessity of achieving stability in Afghanistan to ensure peace and security in the region. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s desire for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Afghanistan, emphasizing that Afghan territory should not be utilized for terrorism against Pakistan or the international community.