ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to advancing the objectives of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). This declaration came during a meeting with Nurlan Yermekbayev, the Secretary-General of the SCO, in Islamabad.

According to Radio Pakistan, the discussions between the two leaders focused on strengthening cooperation among SCO member states in pivotal areas such as the economy, transport, and connectivity. The meeting also addressed regional and international developments, with both sides exchanging views on these matters.

The Deputy Prime Minister expressed Pakistan’s readiness to work closely with all member states in anticipation of assuming the Chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of State in September 2026 and hosting the SCO Summit next year. In response, the SCO Secretary-General praised Pakistan’s efforts in promoting regional peace, stability, and cooperation. He also provided insights and proposals for enhancing the organization’s efficiency and briefed the Deputy Prime Minister on the upcoming SCO Council of Foreign Ministers Meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.