Pakistan’s Federal Minister Attaullah Tarar expressed optimism about the upcoming SCO summit, highlighting its potential to bolster regional cooperation, trade, and security measures. He emphasized Pakistan’s strategic role in advocating for peace in the Middle East and promoting economic growth, particularly through digital technologies, while addressing the challenges of terrorism and climate change. The summit is viewed as an opportunity to enhance Pakistan’s image internationally during a period of positive economic trends.
Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting, National Heritage and Culture, Mr. Attaullah Tarar, recently articulated the significance of the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit as a vital platform aimed at enhancing regional collaboration, trade, and financial integrity among member nations. During a media workshop organized by the China Media Group, Mr. Tarar expressed optimism that the summit would elevate Pakistan’s international standing and foster beneficial economic developments, coinciding with positive shifts in the country’s economy. Acknowledging the pivotal role of the SCO, Mr. Tarar regarded it as a crucial forum for fostering regional cooperation, emphasizing the honor of hosting the summit. He noted that discussions at the summit would cover counter-terrorism efforts and pertinent security matters, recognizing the sacrifices made by Pakistan in combating terrorism, with over 80,000 citizens having lost their lives in this fight. “Over 80,000 Pakistani citizens were martyred in the anti-terrorism war, which was meant to make the world a safer place,” he stated. He highlighted that cooperative efforts among regional partners in counter-terrorism could enhance peace in the area. Moreover, Mr. Tarar stressed the need for collaborative efforts to combat climate change, pointing out Pakistan’s significant vulnerabilities to its effects, including floods and cyclones, despite contributing less than one percent of global toxic gas emissions. He emphasized, “We have to bear the brunt of climate change’s damage in the form of floods and cyclones. Regional cooperation and a collective approach are important in dealing with climate change.” In addition, Mr. Tarar urged long-term peace in the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of addressing the Palestinian issue during the SCO summit, stating that Pakistan has consistently advocated for peace through this forum. He condemned the ongoing violence in Palestine, asserting that, “The world should admit that there was genocide of innocent Palestinians in Palestine, and war crimes are being committed.” He underlined that peace in the Middle East is necessary for global stability and called upon the civilized world to ensure an immediate ceasefire. On the economic front, Mr. Tarar expressed confidence in Pakistan’s economic recovery, citing positive indicators such as rising remittances and IT exports. He noted, “Economic indicators of Pakistan are improving, and hosting the SCO summit at this point will prove beneficial for Pakistan.” Furthermore, he commented on the crucial role of the digital economy and the potential for regional integration through digital technologies, highlighting that about 68% of Pakistan’s population consists of youth who are actively engaged in freelancing. Furthermore, Mr. Tarar acknowledged the support from China, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, which facilitated an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He stated, “Thanks to the economic measures taken by the government, the interest rate has decreased, and investment has increased,” underscoring the importance of fostering a digital economy, trade, and investment for a prosperous regional future. Mr. Tarar reiterated the vital need for enhanced financial integration and economic collaboration among SCO member countries. He expressed that Pakistan’s strategic location positions it as a potential hub for regional trade, particularly with Central Asian states. He called for greater cultural exchanges and deeper people-to-people connections among the member nations, proclaiming, “With more cooperation among the member states of the SCO, the people of the region could be taken to prosperity.”
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising several Eurasian nations that promotes cooperation in political, economic, and security-related issues. The upcoming SCO summit provides an opportunity for member states to engage in discussions that may promote not only trade and economic collaboration but also shared approaches to combat terrorism and address pressing global issues such as climate change and regional stability, specifically in the context of the Middle East and Palestine. For Pakistan, hosting this summit is seen as a potential catalyst for enhancing its international image and stimulating its economy amid ongoing challenges.
The statements made by Minister Attaullah Tarar highlight the integral role of the upcoming SCO summit in fostering regional cooperation, economic growth, and addressing critical issues such as security and climate change. He underscored Pakistan’s commitment to advocating for peace, particularly concerning the Palestinian issue. Additionally, the emphasis on digital economy integration and financial cooperation among member states presents a strategic vision for long-term regional prosperity. Ultimately, the successful holding of the SCO summit could have significant implications for Pakistan’s standing and economic trajectory, alongside fostering collaborative efforts among member nations.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
