Introduction
Shanghai
Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a powerful organization of Eurasia that constitutes
emerging world powers and fastest growing economies including China, Russia and
India. It also hosts key regional states including Pakistan and Iran as well as
important Central Asian Republics.
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- Regional Security: Combating terrorism and extremism.
- Economic Cooperation: Promoting trade, investment and regional connectivity.
- Cultural Exchange: Strengthening cultural ties among the member states.
Pakistan became
the member of SCO in 2017. The prime focus of Pakistan in the organization
involves counterterrorism, economic development and cultural exchange.
Since it became
member of SCO Pakistan hosted several events including Ministerial Meeting of
SCO members on Counter-Terrorism in 2022.
Being the
member of SCO Pakistan also face a diplomatic challenge of balancing its ties
with US.
The Significance of the SCO for Pakistan
The objectives
of the organization are very clear and significant for Pakistan as it requires improvement
and development in the same areas.
Security:
SCO's Regional
Anti-Terrorism Structure (RATS) provides a platform for intelligence sharing,
joint operations, and training against terrorism, extremism, and separatism.
Pakistan.
Similarly,
Border Security is another aspect on which cooperation with the SCO members is
significant. In a recent border clash between Pakistan and Iran, Russia issued
a statement reiterating both the countries to show maximum restraint and
resolve their difference through diplomacy as both are the member of Shanghai
Cooperation Organization.
Joint military
exercises and strategic dialogues enhance defence cooperation and understanding
between Pakistan and other SCO members, contributing to regional security
architecture. In 2021, Pakistan Army participated in opening ceremony of the"Peace
Mission" that was an anti-terror exercise under Shanghai Cooperation
Organisation (SCO) platform.
Economy:
Along the trade
and connectivity like China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Cooperation on
energy projects like natural gas pipelines and hydroelectric dams, can address
Pakistan's energy needs and promote regional energy security.
CASA-1000 and
TAPI Gas Pipeline are noteworthy projects. These are not sufficient as there is
more capacity in this domain for introducing new such projects including development
of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, promoting clean energy
and addressing climate change.
Similarly, upgrading
roads, railways, and communication networks can also facilitate trade and
movement of people between Pakistan and SCO members, boosting economic
cooperation.
Political and Cultural:
Pakistan is
very much concerned about the terrorism and separatist movement across central
Asia. It also shares historical, cultural and religious ties with majority of
the Central Asian states.
The writer has expertise in the field of International Relations
Also Read: SCO Summit 2023: Understanding the Significance of Shanghai Cooperation Organization
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