Delegates Arrive in Islamabad for Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit

The 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit is set to begin in Islamabad on October 15 and 16, and the arrival of international delegations has commenced, marking the start of the high-profile event.

According to sources from the Foreign Office, representatives from several member states have already landed in Pakistan, including a four-member team from India, a 76-member delegation from Russia, and seven officials from the SCO Secretariat. Additionally, delegations from China (15 members), Kyrgyzstan (4 members), and Iran (2 members) have arrived, with more dignitaries expected soon. All visiting officials have been escorted to their accommodations under strict security protocols.

As the host, Pakistan has illuminated the capital with colorful lights to welcome the delegates. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will preside over the summit, which will see participation from high-level leaders including the Prime Ministers of China, Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

The summit will also feature Iran’s First Vice President and India’s External Affairs Minister, along with the Prime Minister of Mongolia, the Chairman of Mongolia’s Cabinet, and Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif plans to engage in bilateral talks on the sidelines of the summit, with discussions set to focus on expanding trade, economic partnerships, and addressing environmental challenges. The talks will also explore opportunities to enhance socio-cultural exchanges between member states.

To ensure a safe and smooth event, Islamabad has been placed under heightened security, with contingents of the Pakistan Army deployed throughout the city. The summit promises to strengthen cooperation among SCO member nations across multiple sectors.