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Pakistan's Engagement with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)

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By M. Khan

Introduction

Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a powerful organization of Eurasia that constitutes emerging world powers and fastest growing economies including China, Russia and India. It also hosts key regional states including Pakistan and Iran as well as important Central Asian Republics.

Pakistan's Engagement with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)
Image Credit: Google
The main goals of the SCO are:

  • Regional Security: Combating terrorism and extremism.
  • Economic Cooperation: Promoting trade, investment and regional connectivity.
  • Cultural Exchange: Strengthening cultural ties among the member states.

    Pakistan became the member of SCO in 2017. The prime focus of Pakistan in the organization involves counterterrorism, economic development and cultural exchange.

    Since it became member of SCO Pakistan hosted several events including Ministerial Meeting of SCO members on Counter-Terrorism in 2022.

    Being the member of SCO Pakistan also face a diplomatic challenge of balancing its ties with US.

    The Significance of the SCO for Pakistan

    The objectives of the organization are very clear and significant for Pakistan as it requires improvement and development in the same areas.

    Security:

    SCO's Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure (RATS) provides a platform for intelligence sharing, joint operations, and training against terrorism, extremism, and separatism. Pakistan.

    Similarly, Border Security is another aspect on which cooperation with the SCO members is significant. In a recent border clash between Pakistan and Iran, Russia issued a statement reiterating both the countries to show maximum restraint and resolve their difference through diplomacy as both are the member of Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

    Joint military exercises and strategic dialogues enhance defence cooperation and understanding between Pakistan and other SCO members, contributing to regional security architecture. In 2021, Pakistan Army participated in opening ceremony of the"Peace Mission" that was an anti-terror exercise under Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) platform.

    Economy:

    Along the trade and connectivity like China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Cooperation on energy projects like natural gas pipelines and hydroelectric dams, can address Pakistan's energy needs and promote regional energy security.

    CASA-1000 and TAPI Gas Pipeline are noteworthy projects. These are not sufficient as there is more capacity in this domain for introducing new such projects including development of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, promoting clean energy and addressing climate change.

    Similarly, upgrading roads, railways, and communication networks can also facilitate trade and movement of people between Pakistan and SCO members, boosting economic cooperation.

    Political and Cultural:

    Pakistan is very much concerned about the terrorism and separatist movement across central Asia. It also shares historical, cultural and religious ties with majority of the Central Asian states.

    The writer has expertise in the field of International Relations

    Also Read: SCO Summit 2023: Understanding the Significance of Shanghai Cooperation Organization

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