Dr. Muhammad Shoaib
During my PhD at Shandong University in Qingdao, China, I had the unique opportunity to closely observe the dynamics of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), particularly during the 2018 SCO Summit held there. The event was a significant moment in Asian geopolitics, as it saw the coming together of two longstanding rivals—India and Pakistan—under the same roof, alongside representatives from other member states. This rare diplomatic convergence offered a fascinating glimpse into regional cooperation, despite deep-rooted tensions. My experience in Qingdao, both as a scholar and observer, provided invaluable insights into the complexities of the SCO’s role in fostering collaboration among diverse nations.
The 2024 Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, held from October 15-16 in Islamabad, Pakistan, marked a significant diplomatic gathering with leaders from key member states participating. The event focused on deepening cooperation across various sectors, including security, trade, investment, and cultural exchanges, with the goal of fostering a peaceful, prosperous, and ecologically sustainable future.
Pakistan’s hosting of the summit was a resounding success. The arrangements were impeccable, showcasing the country’s renowned hospitality. The warm reception and generosity extended by Pakistan, as always, set the tone for a positive atmosphere. Leaders from nations such as India, China, Russia, and others reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation, emphasizing mutual respect, non-interference, and peaceful dispute resolution. The summit addressed global issues like climate change, food security, and health, while advocating for sustainable economic growth through initiatives like the “New Economic Dialogue” and the SCO Economic Development Strategy up to 2030.
A highlight of the summit was the participation of India and Pakistan, both nations showing constructive engagement despite their longstanding rivalry. Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar publicly thanked Pakistan for the warm reception, and media reports suggested the possibility of renewed cricket diplomacy, signaling an easing of tensions.
Leaders also stressed the importance of cooperation on multilateral trade systems, infrastructure development, and climate resilience. The summit also highlighted the establishment of the SCO Development Bank, which would play a pivotal role in the region’s economic future. Cultural exchanges, people-to-people diplomacy, and youth cooperation were underscored as crucial for building stronger ties among member states.
The recent SCO Summit in Islamabad marks a pivotal moment for Pakistan, offering a much-needed sigh of relief amid mounting international and domestic tensions. Several factors underscore why this summit represents a breakthrough for Pakistan’s diplomatic standing and future prospects.
First and foremost, the meeting between Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar was a significant, though non-political, development. This was the first Indian ministerial visit to Pakistan in nine years, which in itself is a gesture that cannot be ignored. The two diplomats engaged in light, non-contentious discussions—highlighting topics such as cricket—rather than delving into the usual blame game over contentious issues like terrorism. While renowned analysts Dr. Qamar Cheema, argue that this interaction holds no immediate diplomatic weight, in my view, this exchange is a crucial ice-melting moment. It demonstrates a shift from hostility to open, albeit informal, dialogue, a necessary step for thawing relations between the two countries.
Secondly, Pakistan’s role in the summit signified its commitment to multilateral diplomacy, particularly within the SCO framework. For years, there has been a concerted effort by traditional rivals to diplomatically isolate Pakistan. However, the SCO Summit, with four nuclear nations—India, China, Russia, and Pakistan—present, underscored Pakistan’s integral position in regional and global geopolitics. The summit proved that Pakistan cannot be sidelined, especially in forums that shape the future of economic and security cooperation in Asia.
Finally, the summit emphasized Pakistan’s focus on mutual security, trade, and cultural exchange, moving away from belligerent rhetoric and positioning the country as a proponent of regional peace and ecological sustainability. Notably, Pakistan’s emphasis on initiatives like the ‘New Economic Dialogue’ and the SCO Economic Development Strategy up to 2030 demonstrates the country’s forward-looking agenda. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s engagement with Russian and Chinese counterparts highlighted Pakistan’s desire to foster deeper bilateral ties, particularly in trade, industry, and energy.
The SCO Summit in Islamabad was not just a diplomatic event—it was a sigh of relief that reinforced Pakistan’s resilience in global affairs and renewed hope for a peaceful, prosperous future.
The Author is PhD in International Relations and academician.
