Islamabad (TDI): The 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of Government (CHG) summit concluded in Islamabad on Wednesday, marking a pivotal moment in advancing cooperation among member states.
In his closing remarks, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the formal handover of the CHG chairmanship to Russia, congratulating Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on assuming the role.
He also confirmed that the next CHG meeting would be hosted by Russia in 2025.
The premier reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the shared objectives of the SCO, urging member states to prioritize collaboration over political differences.
“Let us build on our achievements and work together to ensure the SCO remains a symbol of stability, development, and mutual benefit for all,” he emphasized.
Condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza, Shehbaz Sharif called for an immediate ceasefire and urged the global community to support the establishment of a Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds as its capital.
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A significant part of the summit’s agenda centered on economic integration and trade cooperation among SCO member states, reflecting the organization’s focus on enhancing regional connectivity and infrastructure development.
The participating leaders signed a series of key documents, including a joint declaration aimed at furthering economic, trade, and investment cooperation.
The agreements also encompassed measures to ensure the efficient functioning of the permanent bodies of the SCO, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to fostering peace and development across the region.
In-depth Discussion on Enhancing Cooperation
The summit also provided a platform for in-depth discussions on enhancing cooperation in sectors such as technology, health, and education, while addressing pressing security concerns, including terrorism and extremism.
SCO members agreed to continue working together to combat these challenges and promote a safer, more prosperous region.
In his concluding remarks, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt gratitude to the national coordinators, experts, and SCO Secretariat staff for their diligent efforts in finalizing the summit’s documents and agreements.
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“The success of this summit is a testament to your hard work, and we are deeply appreciative of your contributions,” he said.
As the SCO summit drew to a close, the event marked a reaffirmation of the organization’s role as a significant multilateral platform for fostering regional cooperation, peace, and stability, with Russia now poised to lead the organization into its next phase.
