Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to respecting the sovereignty and integrity of all Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) members and neighboring countries during his address at the SCO summit in Tianjin, China, on Monday.
Arriving in China over the weekend for the two-day SCO Council of Heads of State summit, PM Shehbaz stressed multilateralism and dialogue as essential to regional harmony. He expressed concern over recent regional developments, noting, “Pakistan supports and respects the sovereignty and integrity of all SCO members and its neighbors.”
Highlighting the importance of respecting international and bilateral treaties, the Prime Minister hinted at tensions with India following its unilateral decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty. He stated that maintaining treaties would enhance SCO cooperation, bolstering its mission and goals. “Uninterrupted access to water as agreed among SCO members will ensure the organization’s smooth operation and foster our broader objectives,” he said.
Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s aspiration for stable and normal relations with neighboring countries, advocating for dialogue over confrontation. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s allegiance to United Nations and SCO principles, emphasizing his nation’s dedication to peace and diplomacy.
The Prime Minister also praised China’s role in the SCO’s successful tenure under President Xi’s leadership. Commending initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), he illustrated how they demonstrate China’s global leadership.
As he began his remarks, PM Shehbaz acknowledged Tianjin’s significance as a cultural and civilizational bridge in China. He thanked President Xi for the hospitality extended during the summit and congratulated Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan on their recent national days.
The summit opens avenues for comprehensive dialogue and aims to address unresolved regional disputes, fostering regional prosperity and peace. News from this event continues to unfold, and further developments are expected.
