SCO termed a catalyst for regional integration

Islamabad : Experts, diplomats, and scholars discussed the multifaceted role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in fostering regional cooperation, security, and economic integration at a roundtable.

The roundtable discussion on "SCO: a catalyst for regional integration and connectivity" was organised here by Institute of Strategic Studies (ISS).

Dr Saif Malik, Director, Army Institute of Military History, addressed the challenges posed by extremist groups such as ISIS and ISKP and highlighted the need for a comprehensive SCO policy to combat these threats. He also discussed the complexities of regional geopolitics, particularly the relations between Pakistan, India, China, and Russia.

Prof Amna Masood from International Islamic University emphasised the importance of leveraging the SCO forum to enhance Pakistan’s trade and technological partnerships with Central Asian and South Asian nations. She noted that the upcoming Council of Heads of Government (CHG) meeting presents an unprecedented opportunity for bilateral and multilateral meetings aimed at securing economic and cultural cooperation.

Dr Uzma Siraj, Head of International Relations Department, Federal Urdu University, discussed the challenges and opportunities for SCO in promoting regional connectivity. She outlined key areas for acceleration, including digital infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and educational exchanges, to foster greater regional cooperation.

Babar Amin, Pakistan's First National Coordinator for SCO, delivered the keynote address, focusing on Pakistan's achievements during its chairmanship of the SCO CHG. He outlined Pakistan’s efforts in advancing economic cooperation, connectivity and security initiatives, despite regional challenges. He highlighted Pakistan’s strategic role in fostering transport links and regional security cooperation through the SCO framework.

Earlier, Sohail Mahmood, Director-General, ISS, in his welcoming remarks, said that while ideal outcomes from multilateral platforms like the SCO are desirable, the realities and challenges must be acknowledged. Progress, even if not perfect, should be supported and strengthened. He further added that patience is crucial, as the SCO, like other organisations, evolves at its own pace.

Highlighting its growing economic influence, he noted that SCO members' trade had risen from $667 billion in 2001 to $6 trillion in 2022, demonstrating the organisation’s increasing global relevance and economic heft. Hosting the SCO-CHG meeting is a distinct honour for Pakistan and as the host country, it would ensure the summit’s successful outcome.

In his Introductory remarks, Dr Talat Shabbir, Director, ISS, emphasised the importance of SCO as a platform representing almost half of the world's population and nearly a quarter of the global GDP. He noted that Pakistan's upcoming hosting of the CHG Summit presents a pivotal opportunity for further multilateral cooperation in trade, peace and regional stability.

Khalid Mahmood, Chairperson, BoG, ISS, also spoke on the occasion.