PM Shehbaz Sharif highlights connectivity, energy security and development cooperation as key priorities for the SCO region.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stressed the importance of regional connectivity, energy security and economic cooperation, saying the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) region is home to more than 3 billion people.
Addressing the SCO summit, Shehbaz said regional connectivity was no longer a choice but a strategic necessity. He emphasized the need to strengthen rail, road and energy links among member states to support economic growth and regional integration.
The prime minister said recent crises had highlighted the importance of secure and reliable energy corridors, underscoring the need for greater cooperation in the energy sector.
Shehbaz also highlighted the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as an important means of connecting regional economies with the Arabian Sea. He said Pakistan was committed to promoting regional rail, road and energy projects to strengthen connectivity and facilitate trade.
The prime minister called for implementation of the SCO Development Strategy 2035, describing it as essential for achieving the organization’s long-term development objectives.
He also said the establishment of an SCO development bank would prove to be an important step toward strengthening financial cooperation and supporting development initiatives across the region.
Shehbaz said Pakistan would continue playing its role in efforts to reduce poverty and promote social protection, while supporting initiatives aimed at improving the well-being of people across SCO member states.
He outlined Pakistan’s priorities during its SCO chairmanship, saying energy and information technology would receive particular attention. Health, culture and sports would also remain among the country’s key priorities during its tenure.
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