Islamabad: Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has extended congratulations to the nation as Pakistan takes on the Rotating Chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of State for the 2026-27 term. This development is being hailed as a diplomatic achievement for the country.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan, Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq emphasized that this chairmanship, along with Lahore’s designation as the SCO Tourism and Cultural Capital for 2026-2027, demonstrates the international community’s confidence in Pakistan. This milestone is seen as a significant step in the nation’s diplomatic journey.

The Speaker acknowledged Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership and diplomatic initiatives, which have played a crucial role in enhancing Pakistan’s global stature. The contributions of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and the military leadership were also recognized for their strategic efforts that have brought international recognition to Pakistan.

The decision by the Strategic Political and Defence Committee to appoint the first Secretary-General of the Secretariat of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement from Pakistan underscores the trust placed in the country’s leadership. This appointment is viewed as a testament to Pakistan’s role in promoting collective defence and security cooperation among Muslim nations.

Sardar Ayaz Sadiq highlighted Pakistan’s theme for the SCO Chairmanship, “Turning Vision into Action: Connectivity, Innovation and Shared Prosperity,” reflecting the country’s dedication to fostering cooperation among member states. The upcoming SCO Council of Heads of State Summit in Islamabad in 2027 is anticipated to provide an opportunity to display Pakistan’s hospitality and diplomatic capabilities, furthering regional peace and development.