ISLAMABAD: Speakers at a roundtable discussion on the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) emphasized the need for a coordinated effort within the organization to address the growing threats posed by extremist groups.
The session, titled “SCO: A Catalyst for Regional Integration and Connectivity,” was organized by the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) and attended by diplomats, experts, and scholars.
The focus was on the SCO’s role in regional cooperation, security, and economic integration.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General of ISSI, highlighted the SCO’s increasing global relevance, noting its evolution into the world’s largest transregional platform.
He underscored the organization’s significance in the emerging multipolar world order, while stressing the need to support its progress despite challenges.
Ambassador Mahmood pointed to the impressive growth in trade among SCO member states, which rose from $667 billion in 2001 to $6 trillion in 2022. He also reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to hosting the upcoming SCO-CHG meeting, aiming for a successful summit.
Dr. Saif Malik, Director of the Army Institute of Military History, discussed the SCO’s role in combating terrorism and ensuring regional stability. He highlighted the threat posed by extremist groups such as ISIS and ISKP and called for a unified approach within the SCO to address these challenges. Dr. Malik also touched on the complex geopolitical dynamics involving Pakistan, India, China, and Russia, and how these shape regional security.
Ms. Amna Masood, Professor at the International Islamic University Islamabad, spoke about the SCO’s potential to strengthen Pakistan’s economic and technological partnerships, particularly with Central and South Asian nations.
She emphasized that the upcoming CHG meeting presents a valuable opportunity for bilateral and multilateral cooperation in both economic and cultural spheres.
Dr. Uzma Siraj, Head of the International Relations Department at Federal Urdu University, addressed the opportunities and challenges facing the SCO in promoting regional connectivity.
She advocated for greater investment in key areas such as digital infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and educational exchanges to enhance cooperation among member states.
Ambassador Babar Amin, Pakistan’s First National Coordinator for the SCO, delivered the keynote address, reflecting on Pakistan’s achievements during its chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of Government.
He outlined efforts to advance economic cooperation, enhance connectivity, and promote regional security through the SCO framework, despite ongoing regional challenges.