Islamabad: The twenty-third meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) concluded in Islamabad, marking a significant stride toward regional cooperation and unity among member states. The session, attended by top officials from various countries, including China, Russia, and India, focused on fostering economic ties, enhancing digital innovation, and promoting sustainable development within the region.
According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the meeting, chaired by Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, was well-received, with leaders discussing the implementation of previous commitments and exploring new avenues for cooperation. The delegations underscored the importance of mutual respect and non-interference as foundational principles for sustainable development and peaceful relations. A resolution to uphold these values and promote peace and development through increased cooperation across various sectors, including trade, digital economy, and energy, was a focal point of the discussions.
Leaders also reviewed progress on key initiatives like China’s Belt and Road Initiative and proposed the creation of a Greater Eurasian Partnership. The summit highlighted the critical role of technology and digital innovations in boosting economic growth and connectivity, advocating for a joint approach to combat protectionism and unilateral economic sanctions that undermine global trade.
Furthermore, the meeting addressed pressing global economic issues, such as the impact of digitalization on economies and the need for a cohesive strategy to manage the challenges posed by rapid technological advancements. The SCO’s commitment to strengthening the rules-based trading system and opposing trade measures contrary to World Trade Organization (WTO) regulations was reaffirmed.
The delegations agreed on the importance of enhancing information security and advancing digital cooperation, including the development of cross-border data exchange mechanisms that respect national laws. They also committed to continued support for cultural and humanitarian ties, emphasizing the role of people-to-people diplomacy in achieving peace and development.