Pakistan Prepares for the 23rd SCO Summit
ISLAMABAD - Pakistan is set to host the 23rd Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on October 15-16, a significant event aimed at enhancing regional cooperation in areas such as economy, trade, investment, and security. The summit is seen as a vital opportunity for Pakistan to shape its economic future, especially amid ongoing political challenges and calls for protests from the opposition party, PTI, founded by jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
To ensure a secure environment during the summit, the Pakistani government has deployed army troops in Islamabad and announced an official holiday from October 14-16. The Interior Ministry's notification aims to maintain law and order during high-profile visits, including that of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, who is attending the summit for the first time in 11 years. The summit is expected to culminate in several bilateral agreements between Pakistan and China, particularly focusing on the economic corridor project involving the Gwadar International Airport.
Significance of the Summit for Pakistan
Experts believe that hosting the SCO summit is crucial for Pakistan, as it enhances the country's role in regional diplomacy and security. Asadullah Khan from the Pakistan-China Studies Centre noted that the summit allows Islamabad to strengthen ties with regional powers and signal its commitment to promoting peace and cooperation. Researcher Arhama Siddiqa emphasized that this summit could help reshape Pakistan's international image, showcasing its readiness to engage in regional security and economic initiatives.
The summit, titled “Strengthening Multilateral Dialogue, Striving for Sustainable Peace and Prosperity,” will address urgent issues such as terrorism and regional stability. Experts anticipate that member states will discuss collective strategies to combat terrorism, which has seen a resurgence in recent years within Pakistan. The outcomes of the summit could lead to concrete steps toward strengthening economic partnerships and addressing environmental challenges, thereby indicating a shared commitment to long-term prosperity in the region.
