Qureshi calls for ‘collective effort’ to tackle challenges at SCO moot

Foreign minister Qureshi says CPEC will further promote links in the region

ISLAMABAD: A two-day Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers’ meeting is underway in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi is representing Pakistan in the moot which will approve resolutions to be adopted by the council of heads of states at the SCO meeting scheduled to be held in June.



Qureshi called for collective efforts amongst the SCO member countries to meet the present day challenges and to achieve sustainable development.

Addressing the SCO meeting, the foreign minister said, “The SCO serves as an important platform for links amongst the regional countries and Pakistan is determined to implement its charter.”

Referring to the geo-strategic location of Pakistan, FM Qureshi said China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Project would help further promote links in the region.

Condemning terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, he stressed the need for addressing its root causes. Qureshi said Pakistan was amongst of the few countries which successfully countered terrorism.

The foreign minister said,” Pakistan is ready to share its experience and expertise with the SCO friends to deal with terrorism.”

Over peace in Afghanistan, Qureshi reiterated that Pakistan would continue to facilitate the Afghan peace process owned and led by its own people.

Conflict resolution is important for peace and stability in the South Asian region,” the foreign minister added.

In a clear reference to India, he said, “Pakistan has given a message of peace by opening the Kartarpur Corridor for the Sikh community.”

Earlier, Qureshi along with other SCO foreign ministers held a meeting with Kyrgyz President Sooronbay Jeenbekov.

Pakistan determined to play vibrant role for SCO cooperation: Qureshi

The Kyrgyz president welcomed the foreign ministers and said it was a matter of pride for the country to host the meeting. The foreign ministers also thanked the Kyrgyz president for making excellent arrangements.

The foreign minister also met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi and discussed matters of mutual interest including bi-lateral ties, and regional peace and stability.

The foreign minister also felicitated his Chinese counterpart over organising the recent Belt and Road Forum.