PM Shehbaz signs SCO declaration in Bishkek

BISHKEK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has signed the declaration of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of State, marking a key moment for Pakistan as it prepares to assume the organisation’s presidency for 2026-27.

The prime minister attended the signing ceremony for the SCO summit declaration in Bishkek, where leaders and senior representatives from member states gathered to discuss regional cooperation and shared challenges.

Pakistan’s upcoming presidency is expected to provide Islamabad with an opportunity to play a more active role in shaping the SCO’s agenda, particularly on regional connectivity, economic cooperation, security and political dialogue.

The SCO brings together major countries across Asia and Eurasia and provides a platform for its members to coordinate on issues ranging from trade and investment to counterterrorism and regional stability.

Shehbaz Meets Iranian President

On the sidelines of the summit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also held a meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Bishkek.

The meeting came amid heightened regional tensions and growing international attention on developments involving Iran and the United States. The two leaders discussed matters of mutual interest and the evolving regional situation.

The meeting was part of Pakistan’s broader diplomatic engagement during the SCO gathering, as Islamabad seeks to strengthen relations with neighbouring and regional countries.

Dar Holds Separate Iran Talks

Separately, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi ahead of the SCO Council of Heads of State meeting.

The two foreign ministers discussed bilateral relations and regional developments, while stressing the importance of maintaining regular communication.

Dar has also emphasized that dialogue and diplomacy are essential for promoting peace and stability in the region.

Pakistan’s assumption of the SCO presidency comes at a time when regional security and economic cooperation remain major priorities for member states. Islamabad is expected to use its year-long leadership to promote greater coordination and strengthen the organisation’s role in addressing shared regional challenges.

The signing of the declaration therefore marks not only the conclusion of the Bishkek meeting but also the beginning of Pakistan’s new phase of leadership within the SCO.