SCO Summit 2024: Pakistan ready to lead regional unity
Pakistan is geared up to host the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit on October 15-16 in Islamabad.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit (SCO) is an intergovernmental entity that focuses on addressing political, economic, defence, and security matters within the Eurasian region. It is primarily overseen by the Council of Heads of State (HSC) and the Council of Heads of Government (HGC).
The summit is not only a platform for diplomatic engagements, but also a significant opportunity for Pakistan to enhance its socio-political and economic standing. Holding this summit in Pakistan is a great opportunity to clarify how it can attract investment and contribute to regional connectivity.
Origin and Founding Nations of SCO
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) was established in 2001 and currently encompasses nine member states, comprising
- China
- Russia
- Iran
- India
- Pakistan
- Tajikistan
- Uzbekistan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Kazakhstan
In addition, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) comprises three observer states: Afghanistan, Belarus, and Mongolia. Furthermore, the SCO has 14 dialogue partners, namely Sri Lanka, Turkey, Cambodia, Azerbaijan, Nepal, Armenia, Egypt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Myanmar, Maldives and the United Arab Emirates.
The headquarters of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is situated in Beijing, China, where it effectively coordinates the organization’s growing range of activities. The member nations are committed to fostering peace, security, and economic cooperation within their respective countries.
In 2017, full membership was conferred upon India, and Pakistan also attained full membership status within the SCO under the tenure of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, during the government of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) in 2017. Consequently, the total number of member countries reached eight as of 2024.
