Pakistan Hosts SCO Meeting, Engages in Bilateral Talks with Belarus and Tajikistan

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan welcomed international dignitaries to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization's (SCO) dinner, marking the commencement of the organization's summit. High-profile attendees included leaders from China, India, Russia, and several Central Asian nations. The event highlighted discussions on regional cooperation and bilateral talks aimed at enhancing diplomatic relations. According to Kuwait News Agency, the SCO meeting in Islamabad saw the gathering of leaders from member countries, including the Chinese Premier, Li Qiang, who arrived a day prior for a four-day visit. Discussions on the first day centered around enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation among the member states. Pakistan, serving as the chair for this session, took the opportunity to hold significant bilateral talks with Belarus and Tajikistan. During a sideline meeting with Belarus Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko, PM Sharif congratulated Belarus on becoming a full member of the SCO and ex pressed Pakistan's eagerness to foster closer ties under the "Shanghai Spirit." In response, PM Golovchenko appreciated Pakistan's role in successfully hosting the meeting and assured his country's support for Pakistan's leadership in the SCO. Furthermore, PM Sharif met with his Tajik counterpart, Qohir Rasulzoda, where both leaders acknowledged the strong historical ties between their countries and discussed avenues for deeper cooperation. PM Rasulzoda lauded Pakistan for the organization of the SCO meeting and affirmed Tajikistan's commitment to work closely with Pakistan. The series of meetings and discussions at the SCO summit underscored the organization's role in facilitating diplomatic engagement and cooperation among its members, reflecting a collective effort to address common regional challenges and opportunities.