Islamabad, 19 July 2024 (TDI): Centre for SCO Studies, Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies, and Riphah Institute of Public Policy, Riphah International University in collaboration with the Embassy of Kazakhstan to Pakistan organized a Roundtable on “Post Astana Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit 2024: Achievements and Way Forward.” The event took place on Friday, July 19, 2024, at the Riphah Institute of Public Policy, Islamabad.
The roundtable provided an in-depth analysis of the outcomes of the Astana SCO Summit 2024 hosted by Kazakhstan and discussed the future trajectory of the organization under the new chairmanship of the People’s Republic of China. The event featured speakers who delivered important insights into the SCO’s accomplishments and future strategic direction.
The session began with introductory remarks by Dr. Farhat Asif, President Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies. She underscored the significance of the event and provided an overview of the various initiatives undertaken by IPDS concerning the SCO.
She also noted that Pakistan, in its capacity as the Chair of the Heads of Government Council, is set to host the Summit meeting in Islamabad in October 2024. Notably, the Chairmanship for the Heads of Government Council for the term 2024-25 will not be assumed by the People’s Republic of China.
The Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Pakistan, H.E. Yerzhan Kistafin, graced the event as the Chief Guest.
During his remarks, Ambassador Kistafin provided a detailed overview of the Astana Summit’s outcomes, as well as the vision and objectives outlined by the President of Kazakhstan throughout the country’s year of chairmanship in the SCO.
He also emphasized that Kazakhstan organized 150 events and made significant contributions to regional peace and stability through proactive diplomacy and a focus on multilateralism.
Additionally, he noted that the Organization plays a practical role in maintaining regional stability and security, advancing the global economy, and fostering intercultural dialogue.
Distinguished speakers at the roundtable included Dr. Muhammad Munir, Dean of Social Sciences at Muslim Youth (MY) University, and Dr. Muhammad Khan, Head of the Department of International Relations at IIUI.
Dr. Munir emphasized the significance of the SCO in addressing both traditional and non-traditional security threats in the region.
Dr. Khan noted that the SCO is advancing in its efforts to combat global hegemonic exploitation, terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
Dr. Rashid Aftab, Director of the Riphah Institute of Public Policy, highlighted the Green SCO initiative as a crucial endeavor, particularly for Pakistan.
The event was attended by a substantial number of diplomats, media representatives, civil society members, students, and faculty to explore the significant outcomes of the recent Astana SCO Summit and chart a way forward for the organization.
The discussions illuminated the importance of adapting to new security paradigms and enhancing regional cooperation, highlighting the SCO’s potential to influence global policies in areas such as security, economic development, and cultural exchange. The event successfully facilitated a meaningful dialogue among scholars, policymakers, and practitioners, setting a constructive tone for the SCO’s ongoing development and impact on the international stage.
