Islamabad: Secretary General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Nurlan Yermekbayev, is set to arrive in Pakistan on Thursday for a two-day visit at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. The visit aims to bolster cooperation between Pakistan and the SCO, the world’s largest regional multilateral organization.

During his stay, Yermekbayev will engage in high-level discussions with key officials, including the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, the Minister of Commerce, and the Foreign Secretary. The meetings are expected to focus on enhancing bilateral relations and exploring opportunities for socio-economic collaboration.

The Secretary General’s itinerary includes visits to the National Disaster Management Authority and the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry. In addition, he is scheduled to deliver a speech at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad, where he will interact with business leaders, entrepreneurs, and media representatives.

The SCO, comprising ten member states, represents 42% of the world population and accounts for a combined GDP of $24.67 trillion. For Pakistan, the organization serves as a vital platform for strengthening ties with member countries and promoting cooperative initiatives across various sectors.

Yermekbayev’s visit is seen as an opportunity for Pakistan to further engage with the SCO Secretariat in pursuing regional security and economic objectives, aligning with the shared goals of member states.