Ex-PM, oil minister highlight SCO's role in growth

Former caretaker prime minister of Pakistan, Senator Anwaarul Haq Kakar, highlighted the importance of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit 2024 as a crucial platform for multilateral engagements, focusing on regional connectivity, security, economic cooperation, and trade among member countries. Speaking to media during his visit to the Pak-China Friendship Centre on the eve of the SCO Conference 2024, Kakar said that Pakistan is actively working to strengthen ties within the region through this forum.

He noted that the summit offers Pakistan a valuable opportunity to hold private discussions and meetings with the heads of state from participating SCO member countries. "There is also a great opportunity for the heads of the participating countries to discuss several regional challenges," he added, underscoring the importance of dialogue for addressing shared concerns.

Responding to a question, Kakar acknowledged India's significant role in South Asia, stating, "No doubt, India is a major player in the South Asia region, but currently our focus is on the entire region." He clarified that Pakistan's engagements extend beyond India, highlighting Pakistan's strategic partnerships with key regional powers like China and Russia.

When asked about other regional platforms, Kakar stressed the need to revitalise organisations like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) to promote economic prosperity and connectivity across South Asia. "As we see, Western countries have formed strong bonds and established platforms like the European Union for cooperation in economy, trade, and cultural activities. Similarly, such cooperation is essential in our region, and forums like SAARC play a vital role in this process," Kakar remarked.

Meanwhile, Minister for Petroleum, Musadik Malik, expressed high hopes for the 23rd Council of Heads of Government (CHG) of the SCO summit, emphasising its potential to elevate regional economic development and stability. In an interview, Malik reiterated the importance of regional cooperation, drawing comparisons with successful international bodies such as the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Malik highlighted the immense economic potential of the SCO member states, which together represent 44% of the global population and contribute nearly 30% to the world's GDP. He believes that enhancing trade and cultural ties among these nations could unlock new avenues for growth. "There is a tremendous opportunity for these countries to develop strategies through dialogue. Together, we can enhance economic activity, create new businesses, and ultimately provide more jobs for the youth," Malik said, highlighting the summit's focus on job creation.