Pakistan’s Commitment to Regional Cooperation Highlighted Ahead of SCO Summit

Federal Minister Attaullah Tarar stated that the upcoming SCO summit will significantly promote regional cooperation, trade, and financial integrity among member nations. He highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to counter-terrorism measures, climate change, and the pursuit of peace in the Middle East. Tarar expressed optimism regarding Pakistan’s economic prospects and the importance of enhancing the digital economy for regional integration.

Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting, National Heritage and Culture, Mr. Attaullah Tarar, recently stated that the forthcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit will serve as an important platform to foster regional cooperation, promote trade, and enhance financial integrity among member nations. In a media workshop conducted by the China Media Group ahead of the summit, Mr. Tarar expressed optimism that the event would significantly elevate Pakistan’s global image and prospects, particularly in light of the favorable developments within the nation’s economy. He remarked, “At a time when good news is coming regarding the national economy and fruits of economic development have started reaching the people, hosting the SCO summit will promote Pakistan’s image and its future prospects.” Mr. Tarar underscored the significance of the SCO as a principal forum for regional collaboration, deeming it a privilege for Pakistan to host the event. He noted that the summit would also address crucial issues such as counter-terrorism and regional security. Highlighting Pakistan’s sacrifices in the anti-terrorism struggle, he stated, “Over 80,000 Pakistani citizens were martyred in the anti-terrorism war, which was meant to make the world a safer place. We hope that regional cooperation in counter-terrorism will promote peace in the region.” In addition to security concerns, Mr. Tarar emphasized the necessity of regional cooperation in combating climate change, stressing Pakistan’s vulnerability to its adverse impacts. He pointed out that Pakistan contributes less than one percent of global greenhouse gas emissions while experiencing the severe consequences of climate change through natural disasters such as floods and cyclones. “We have to bear the brunt of climate change’s damage in the form of floods and cyclones. Regional cooperation and a collective approach are important in dealing with climate change. With the cooperation of regional countries, we can work on the climate change agenda,” he conveyed. The Minister also highlighted the importance of pursuing lasting peace in the Middle East, particularly regarding the Palestinian issue. He asserted that Pakistan has consistently advocated for peace within the SCO framework. “In the Astana SCO summit, we highlighted the issue of Palestine, and it is important to discuss the issue of Palestine in this meeting of the SCO. Without long-term peace in the Middle East, there can be no peace in the world.” He condemned the violence and war crimes against Palestinians, calling for a global ceasefire. “The world should admit that there was genocide of innocent Palestinians in Palestine, and war crimes are being committed. We raised an effective voice on the issue of Palestine at the SCO and UN General Assembly forums. Peace in the region is possible only through collective efforts.” On the topic of economic development, Mr. Tarar expressed optimism about Pakistan’s economic indicators, including a rise in remittances and IT exports. “Economic indicators of Pakistan are improving, and hosting the SCO summit at this point will prove beneficial for Pakistan. During the last quarter, remittances worth $8.8 billion were received in the country, and IT exports in the last quarter have reached $3.8 billion.” He also emphasized the potential of the digital economy and the prospects for regional integration through digitalization. With approximately 68% of Pakistan’s population being youth, he noted, “The digital economy is very important for the country. Moreover, he said that the regional countries could be integrated through digital technologies.” Mr. Tarar acknowledged the economic support from China, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, which facilitated an agreement with the International Monetary Fund. He stated that governmental economic initiatives have resulted in lower interest rates and increased investments, asserting that, “Thanks to the economic measures taken by the government, the interest rate has decreased, and investment has increased.” Furthermore, he called for enhanced financial integration and economic collaboration among SCO member states, noting Pakistan’s strategic importance as a potential trade hub for Central Asian nations. As Mr. Tarar concluded, “With more cooperation among the member states of the SCO, the people of the region could be taken to prosperity.”

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a prominent intergovernmental organization founded in 2001, focusing on promoting political, economic, and military cooperation throughout Eurasia. It encompasses several nations, primarily in Central Asia, and aims to enhance regional stability, security, and economic growth. Pakistan’s hosting of the SCO summit is particularly noteworthy as it reflects the country’s active engagement in international cooperation and its commitment to addressing regional challenges including terrorism, economic disparities, and climate change.

In summary, Pakistan’s Federal Minister, Mr. Attaullah Tarar, has outlined the forthcoming SCO summit as a pivotal opportunity for enhancing regional cooperation, addressing pressing security issues, and bolstering economic collaboration among member states. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to fighting terrorism and addressing climate change while advocating for peace in the Middle East and underlining the importance of the digital economy as a driver for growth. Through the SCO summit, Pakistan aspires to elevate its international standing and contribute to collective efforts for regional prosperity and stability.

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