Pakistan is hosting the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Heads of Government summit amidst heightened security measures. The event, taking place in the capital city, is seen as a significant milestone for Pakistan as it seeks to bolster its international standing and revive its economy.
The summit’s importance is underscored by Pakistan’s recent efforts to counter attempts at international isolation. By hosting the event, the country has demonstrated its ability to attract major diplomatic gatherings and engage with key global players. However, the government has also recognized the critical need to ensure the summit’s smooth conduct, given the ongoing security challenges and the potential for malicious activities.
To safeguard the event, the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi have been placed under a virtual lockdown. A massive security operation involving tens of thousands of police, paramilitary personnel, and military forces has been deployed to protect foreign dignitaries and delegates. While the security measures may seem excessive, the administration has emphasized the importance of taking no chances given the high-profile nature of the summit.
Beyond the security aspects, the SCO summit offers Pakistan a valuable platform to engage with other regional states and foster cooperation in areas such as trade, counterterrorism, and cultural exchange. The SCO, a Beijing-led initiative, brings together China, Russia, the Central Asian states, Iran, and others, with a focus on building a Eurasian community based on economic integration, security collaboration, and cultural exchange.
Regional integration is seen as a key driver of Pakistan’s economic prosperity, and the SCO provides a valuable forum for promoting cooperation with neighboring countries. While some may view the SCO as an “anti-West” collective, this perspective is limited. Partnerships between regional states can create constituencies of peace and common efforts to encourage trade and economic activity.
The arrival of the Indian external affairs minister in Islamabad for the summit has generated significant interest, although a bilateral breakthrough is not expected. Pakistan is also actively pursuing full membership in the BRICS group of emerging economies and seeking to strengthen its ties with other regional blocs to expand its trade horizons and improve its foreign relations.
The successful hosting of the SCO summit would signal that Pakistan is regaining its international stature and is once again a key player on the global stage. The event offers an opportunity for the country to showcase its progress, strengthen its diplomatic relations, and contribute to regional stability and prosperity.
