Islamabad: Federal Minister for Board of Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh has urged Pakistan to draw lessons from the “Shanghai Spirit” to foster peace, economic collaboration, and regional relations. Speaking at a seminar titled “SCO at 25: The Shanghai Spirit and A New Journey with Islamabad,” Sheikh emphasized the need for dialogue, mutual trust, and peaceful dispute resolution as Pakistan assumes the chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

According to Press Information Department, the seminar was organized by the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) and China Media Group (CMG) in Islamabad. It brought together diplomats, policymakers, and scholars to discuss the evolution of the SCO and its role in regional affairs. Participants highlighted the importance of Pakistan’s leadership role in the organization and the potential for advancing connectivity and regional integration.

The seminar also featured insights from Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed, who outlined the strategic significance of Pakistan’s chairmanship and the country’s growing international relations. Guest of Honour Ms. Zhuang Xinyan underscored the enduring Pakistan-China friendship and the importance of regional cooperation in promoting peace and shared development.

Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh stressed the need for Pakistan to study China’s economic transformation and apply relevant lessons to its own development strategies. He highlighted China’s achievement in poverty alleviation as an example for Pakistan to follow, emphasizing the importance of economic engagement and dialogue in international relations.

The discussions underscored the significance of the ongoing SCO proceedings in Bishkek, where Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif is participating. The seminar concluded with a call to embrace the principles of the Shanghai Spirit to enhance regional connectivity and improve the quality of life for Pakistan’s citizens, amidst contemporary global challenges.