President Asif Ali Zardari has called for enhanced cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to boost regional trade and address shared challenges. He made this appeal during a preparatory meeting for the upcoming SCO Summit on August 31, 2025.
Economic Connectivity Drives Growth
The President underscored the significance of the SCO platform in promoting economic connectivity among member states. He highlighted the necessity to tackle climate change and security threats together.
“SCO can transform our region’s economic landscape,” Zardari told NEN. He emphasized that by focusing on trade integration, member nations can explore new market opportunities, thereby enhancing cross-border investment and commercial growth.
CPEC’s Role in Trade Expansion
Zardari emphasized Pakistan’s pivotal role in advancing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) within the SCO framework. This initiative connects Central Asian markets via the Gwadar port, creating a crucial trade corridor for regional commerce and economic integration.
Targets for Regional Integration
The government has set ambitious economic targets for regional integration:
- $3 billion in trade deals targeted for 2026
- Improved connectivity between Central Asia and regional markets
- Development of Gwadar port as a major trade hub
Summit Agreements on Trade Facilitation
Preparations for the Tianjin summit have concluded, with officials confirming that 10 agreements are ready for signing. These agreements will focus on trade facilitation and economic cooperation among SCO member states.
The Foreign Office highlighted Pakistan’s initiative for an SCO climate fund to assist vulnerable nations, demonstrating the country’s commitment to tackling environmental challenges through regional cooperation.
Support for Connectivity Vision
Regional diplomats in Islamabad expressed support for Zardari’s vision of unity and economic integration. “Connectivity is our future,” stated an envoy, emphasizing the growing consensus on regional economic priorities.
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