Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani announced that Pakistan intends to host a conference on transport connectivity to promote regional prosperity later this year. Speaking at the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, he emphasized the role of the SCO Business Council and Inter Bank Association in fostering economic and commercial cooperation among SCO member states, encouraging interaction among entrepreneurs and promoting people-to-people contacts.
As the succeeding chair of the SCO, Pakistan pledged to support existing mechanisms and welcome new initiatives. FM Jalil Abbas Jilani stressed Pakistan’s commitment to the “Shanghai spirit,” which stands for mutual trust, respect, shared prosperity, and development. He emphasized that the SCO represents the collective voice and aspirations of 40% of the global population, making it a fundamental responsibility for SCO leaders to work toward durable and sustainable peace, security, and development.
Jalil Abbas Jilani reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to prioritize cooperation in critical areas such as connectivity, transport linkages, youth empowerment, agriculture, minerals, climate change, and information technology during its Chairmanship of the Council of Heads of Government. Pakistan also plans to strengthen cooperation in education and poverty alleviation.
The FM highlighted the significance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a force multiplier for regional connectivity, offering SCO member states opportunities for shared investment and regional economic integration. He proposed hosting the SCO Businessmen Conference next year to harness the enormous trade and business potential of SCO member states.
Addressing common challenges related to poverty and food security, he stressed the importance of collective efforts and learning from each other’s experiences. He also emphasized the role of the SCO in contributing to durable peace and security in Afghanistan and addressing climate-induced disasters.
FM Jalil Abbas Jilani announced Pakistan’s plans to host a meeting on prevention and response to emergency situations during its chairmanship.