PM Shehbaz signs SCO declaration as Pakistan takes 2026-27 presidency

BISHKEK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has signed the declaration of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of State as the summit of the regional bloc continues in Kyrgyzstan’s capital.

The Pakistani delegation at the summit is being led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Pakistan is set to assume the presidency of the SCO Council of Heads of State for 2026-27.

The signing of the declaration marks an important part of the summit proceedings, with member states expected to reaffirm their commitment to regional cooperation, peace, security and economic connectivity.

The SCO summit brings together leaders from its member countries to discuss developments affecting the region and explore areas of cooperation.

Shehbaz meets Iranian president

Following his arrival in Bishkek, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

During the meeting, Shehbaz stressed the importance of tolerance, dialogue and diplomatic engagement in addressing regional challenges.

The prime minister emphasised that continued communication between countries is essential for promoting peace and stability in the region.

The meeting also provided an opportunity for the two leaders to discuss matters of mutual interest and developments in the wider region.

Pakistan and Iran have repeatedly emphasised the need for stronger bilateral engagement and closer regional coordination.

Pakistan to lead SCO council

Pakistan’s assumption of the SCO Council of Heads of State presidency for 2026-27 will give Islamabad an opportunity to play a greater role in setting the organisation’s priorities and advancing regional cooperation.

The presidency rotates among SCO member states. During its term, Pakistan is expected to host and coordinate key activities under the organisation’s framework.

The development comes at a time when the SCO has expanded considerably since its establishment and has become an important platform bringing together major Asian powers and neighbouring states.

SCO’s expanding membership

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation was established in 2001 by China, Russia and four Central Asian countries. It initially emerged as a regional platform focused heavily on security and cooperation.

Over the past 25 years, the organisation has expanded both its membership and geographical reach.

The SCO now has 10 full members: China, Russia, India, Iran, Pakistan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

A number of other countries are associated with the organisation as dialogue partners.