Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with the Secretary General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Zhang Ming, on October 17, 2024, to discuss Pakistan’s ongoing role and collaborations within the SCO framework. During the meeting, Zhang congratulated Prime Minister Sharif on the successful hosting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting, noting the positive outcomes and Pakistan’s pivotal role.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Zhang Ming commended Pakistan for its active and constructive contributions across all domains of the SCO’s work, highlighting the country’s leadership as the Chair of the SCO Council of Heads of Government. He expressed satisfaction with Pakistan’s efforts in promoting the organization’s objectives and enhancing cooperation among member states.

Prime Minister Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to the SCO Charter and assured the Secretary-General of Pakistan’s continued commitment to advancing the organization’s development priorities for the benefit of all member states and the broader region. He emphasized Pakistan’s readiness to work closely with SCO member states to strengthen the organization’s effectiveness and impact.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Sharif expressed his gratitude to Zhang Ming for his exemplary service as the outgoing Secretary-General of the SCO and wished him success in his future endeavors. He also appreciated the support provided by the SCO Secretariat in organizing the recent SCO meeting, reflecting on Zhang Ming’s previous visit to Pakistan in July 2022, which further solidified the cooperative ties.

This meeting underscores Pakistan’s strategic role in the SCO and its commitment to enhancing regional collaboration and development through its active participation in the organization.