FM Ishaq Dar Emphasises Regional Cooperation and Humanitarian Preparedness at SCO Moscow Summit
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar called for stronger regional cooperation during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government Meeting in Moscow. The summit is taking place from November 17 to 18 under Russia’s rotating presidency. It follows the important Tianjin summit held three months earlier, and it comes at a time when Eurasian connectivity is reshaping global economic trends.
Dar said the SCO is “well-placed” to enhance collaboration in the humanitarian field, especially during emergencies. He noted that Pakistan has built a technology-driven disaster management system to strengthen early response mechanisms. He added that Pakistan is ready to organise simulation exercises with SCO members to help improve regional readiness.
Strengthening Economic Integration Across the SCO Region
Dar highlighted the progress made after the Tianjin summit. He stated that economic integration, cross-border connectivity, trade expansion, and digital development remain core priorities for the SCO. These initiatives, he explained, create a foundation for long-term regional stability. He also described trade, culture, economy, and humanitarian cooperation as key elements of a future-oriented organisation.
Transitioning from this, Dar stressed the importance of using existing financial tools more effectively. He encouraged members to benefit from mechanisms such as the SCO Interbank Consortium. According to him, these tools can support major connectivity and technical collaboration projects.
Engaging Observer and Partner States More Effectively
Dar called for a shift from passive participation to active engagement. He suggested a model where observer and partner states contribute directly to project-based initiatives. This approach, he said, would increase cooperation and deliver practical results. He also underlined the need to modernise communication by introducing English as a working language. A dedicated translation unit, he added, would significantly expand the SCO’s reach.
Youth Empowerment and Human Capital as Regional Priorities
Dar noted that youth empowerment is vital for the organisation’s long-term goals. He proposed expanding the SCO university network into a broader consortium for applied knowledge. This expansion would not only enable student exchanges but also support joint research. He listed information technology, artificial intelligence, agriculture, telemedicine, and water resource management as priority fields.
Pakistan’s Commitment to a Collaborative SCO Vision
Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to being a proactive partner. He said the SCO must serve as a launchpad for shared progress. Through stronger commercial, cultural, and intellectual ties, member states can create a more innovative and interconnected region.
A day before the summit, Dar was received in Moscow by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin and senior officials of the Russian Foreign Ministry.
