ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is set to host the 23rd Heads of Government Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and prepares for strict security. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited the Jinnah Convention Center on Saturday to review preparations, receiving briefings from the CDA chairman and Foreign Office officials.
As the current Chair of the SCO Council of Heads of Government, PM Shehbaz will preside over the summit. Leaders from China, Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are expected to attend, alongside the First Vice President of Iran and India’s External Affairs Minister, marking a rare visit by India. The Prime Minister of Mongolia will participate as an observer, while the deputy chairman of Turkmenistan’s Cabinet and the foreign minister will join as special guests.
During the summit, discussions will focus on economic cooperation, trade, environmental issues, and socio-cultural links, while reviewing the organization’s performance. Additionally, PM Shehbaz plans to hold bilateral meetings with visiting delegations on the sidelines.
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Partner Countries
The SCO, comprising China, India, Russia, Pakistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Belarus, also has 16 affiliated observer or dialogue partner countries. Some analysts view the SCO as a counter to the Western-dominated NATO alliance, especially in light of tensions involving China and Russia with the US and Europe.
However, domestic concerns may overshadow the summit. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has threatened protests, following a recent week of demonstrations that led to a lockdown of the capital. Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhary, the minister for planning, accused the PTI of attempting to portray Pakistan negatively during the summit.
In response, authorities have declared a three-day public holiday in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, implementing road closures to minimize disruptions. The “red zone,” where the summit will take place, has been fortified with security measures, including manicured lawns and razor wire.
Government’s Effort for Positive Image
Given Pakistan’s financial ties to China, particularly regarding infrastructure investments, the government is keen to maintain a positive image during the summit. This is especially critical as the country faces rising militancy linked to the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan.
Security has been heightened in the capital, with army troops deployed to ensure safety during the event. Additionally, the metro bus service will be suspended from October 14 to 17.
The Islamabad police have issued a traffic plan for the summit, directing diversions and road closures to manage the expected influx of vehicles. Heavy traffic will be prohibited from October 14 to 16, ensuring a secure environment for the summit attendees.
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