On 16 October, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif who is presiding over the 23^rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s (SCO) Council of the Heads of Government (CHG) meeting, delivered his opening remarks. Calling the SCO as “a beacon of multilateralism,” PM Sharif called for a “future, that is inclusive, and reflective of the shared aspirations of all member states.” He also argued that the world was going through a “transformation” which was “reshaping the global, social, political, economic, and security landscape.” 

On regional connectivity and Eurasia
Stressing on regional connectivity, PM Sharif emphasized that connectivity projects like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and the international north-south transport corridor (INSTC) should be further developed and expanded. He also pointed out that these projects should not be viewed through “the narrow political prism” but through the lens of achieving regional economic integration. Additionally, he argued that this emphasis on connectivity should not just be about regional trade should also advance a “vision of connected Eurasia.” He urged the members to “endorse a strategy for the development of Energy Cooperation 2030 and the establishment of the Association of Investors”.

On poverty, climate change and equitable development
Highlighting that millions of people in the SCO region live under poverty, PM Sharif argued that it not only an “economic issue” but a “moral imperative.” He referenced Pakistan’s work on the same as chair of the SCO’s special working group on poverty. Pointing out Pakistan’s struggle with climate change led disasters like the devastating floods of 2022, he highlighted National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)’s work. He also added that Pakistan looks forward to “organizing simulation exercises with SCO partners to bolster disaster preparedness across the region.” Additionally, he also called for reforms in the “global financial architecture and trade regimes” for “equitable development.” In this regard, he expressed his support for “the establishment of an SCO alternative development funding mechanism” which would fund “stalled projects.”

On Afghanistan
Further, he highlighted the importance of Afghanistan as an important conduit for trade and transit given its geographical position and stated that “a stable Afghanistan, is not only desirable, but essential, to fully realizing these opportunities.” Additionally, he called upon the international community to deliver/route humanitarian aid to Afghanistan and urged the Taliban regime to be more politically “inclusive” so that the country is not used for conducting terror activities.

References
“PM Shehbaz champions regional peace, stability in SCO address,” The News International, 16 October 2024

“PM Shehbaz calls for expanding China’s BRI as much-anticipated SCO summit underway in Islamabad,” Dawn, 16 October 2024