ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Monday extended “heartfelt congratulations” to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization on the occasion of its 25th anniversary, adding that Islamabad looks forward to “assuming the chairmanship” of the SCO Council of Heads of States in September this year and to hosting the Summit in 2027, according to a Foreign Office statement.
According to the statement, since its establishment in 2001, the SCO has evolved into a “pivotal platform for regional cooperation,” and is playing an important role in promoting regional peace, security, stability, economic cooperation, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges among its member States.
“The milestone of the 25th anniversary confirms the enduring power of the 'Shanghai Spirit,' which continues to guide us through mutual trust, equality, respect for cultural diversity, shared development and constructive engagement,” said the statement.
The statement said that Pakistan’s journey within the SCO, “from observer to a proactive full member since 2017,” reflects its unwavering commitment to multilateralism and confidence in the region's potential.
“Pakistan remains firmly committed to the principles and objectives of the SCO Charter. We appreciate SCO’s approach to respect international law and promote good neighborliness,” added the statement.
Regarding the assumption of the chairmanship, the statement added that “We are looking forward to assuming the chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of States in September this year and hosting the Summit in 2027.” This reflects trust and confidence in Pakistan’s leadership role regionally and globally.
It said that Pakistan will continue to advance a forward-looking and action-oriented agenda aimed at enhancing economic collaboration, promoting regional connectivity, and deepening mutual understanding among peoples.
‘Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure’
The statement added that Pakistan has proudly contributed to the SCO's work. It said that it hosted the Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government in October 2024 in Islamabad.
“We are currently steering the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (SCO-RATS) as its chair for 2025-2026,” said the statement.
It said that as the permanent chair of the SCO Special Working Group on Poverty Alleviation, Pakistan aims at “improving the living standards of millions across our region.”
Pakistan’s strategic geographical location serves as a natural bridge for Eurasian connectivity.
“The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor serves as a model for trans-regional economic and trade integration among SCO countries,” said the statement.
FM Dar said that Pakistan “deeply appreciates” the SCO’s role in fostering regional peace and stability.
“As a frontline state that has made unparalleled sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, Pakistan values the SCO’s collaborative framework in combating the 'three evils' of terrorism, separatism, and extremism,” said the statement.
It added that beyond security, the organization’s efforts in economic growth are laying the foundation for a “resilient regional economy.”
“SCO’s promotion of digital innovation, energy security projects and mutual payments in national currencies is commendable,” it added.
“Pakistan is eager to contribute to regional connectivity, trade and investment, food security, climate resilience, public health, education, digital innovation, and sustainable development,” it said.
It stated that Pakistan envisions a “prosperous future" built on social cohesion and mutual respect, calling for continuing to “work together” to transform our region into a center of peace, harmony, and shared prosperity for our future generations.
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