Islamabad: Pakistan has formally taken over the Chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) for the upcoming year, as announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The Prime Minister outlined Pakistan’s agenda under the theme “Turning Vision into Action: Connectivity, Innovation and Shared Prosperity.”

According to Radio Pakistan, Prime Minister Sharif conveyed his congratulations to the Kyrgyz Republic for its management of the recent summit in Bishkek and its leadership of the organization. He expressed his honor at addressing the SCO Council of Heads of State Meeting, emphasizing the organization’s pivotal role in regional cooperation over the past 25 years, guided by what is referred to as the “Shanghai Spirit.”

Prime Minister Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to combating terrorism, highlighting the country’s sacrifices in this area and asserting that terrorism must be condemned universally. He also underscored the importance of water as a critical resource in the region, cautioning against its weaponization and urging adherence to treaties on shared waters.

The Prime Minister expressed optimism about the future growth of the SCO and its potential to significantly enhance the lives of its more than three billion constituents.