SCO Summit: PM Shehbaz Sharif Advocates for Multilateralism and Regional Cooperation

By Ikram Ullah Joyia

Tianjin: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif led the Pakistani delegation to the Summit meetings of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of State (CHS) and SCO CHS Plus, held on August 31 to September 1, 2025, in Tianjin, China.

During the SCO CHS Summit, Prime Minister Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to the “Shanghai Spirit” of mutual trust, respect, and shared prosperity. He emphasized the importance of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity of all SCO member states, as well as adhering to international and bilateral treaties.

The Prime Minister called for unhindered access to water resources as per existing treaties among SCO member states and advocated for normal relations with neighboring countries through dialogue and diplomacy. He condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, highlighting Pakistan's sacrifices in combating terrorism for regional and global stability.

Prime Minister Sharif also outlined the government's economic transformation plan, focusing on trade expansion, innovation, and revenue generation. He denounced Israel's military offensive against Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire, while also condemning the attack on Iran, a fellow SCO member state.

The Prime Minister emphasized the need for engagement with Afghanistan to address regional instability and praised SCO's vision of regional connectivity and economic integration. He highlighted Pakistan's strategic location as a potential trade and transit hub for the SCO region and noted the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor as a key initiative for achieving trans-regional economic integration.

During the SCO CHS Plus meeting, Prime Minister Sharif stressed the importance of multilateralism, respecting the UN Charter, and resolving disputes through peaceful means. He advocated for innovation-driven growth and welcomed SCO's commitment to cooperation in development.

The SCO CHS adopted several decisions and statements, including the Tianjin Declaration, which outlines the organization's views on regional and global issues. The Council also approved plans and strategies for economic and security cooperation, including the SCO Development Strategy until 2035.

On the sidelines of the summit, Prime Minister Sharif held bilateral meetings with SCO member state leaders, discussing issues of mutual interest and strengthening political, economic, and trade relations.