Pakistan’s Strategic Role in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO); Prospects and Challenges.

Pakistan’s Strategic Role in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO); Prospects and Challenges.

Pakistan’s inclusion in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in June 2017 marked a significant milestone in its foreign policy, offering avenues for enhanced regional cooperation and economic development. The 2025 SCO Summit in Tianjin underscored Pakistan’s active participation and highlighted both the opportunities and challenges it faces within this multilateral framework.

Pakistan’s Role and Strategic Importance

As a full member of the SCO, Pakistan plays a pivotal role in fostering regional stability and economic integration. The organization, comprising China, Russia, India, and several Central Asian nations, serves as a platform for addressing security concerns, promoting economic growth, and enhancing cultural exchanges. Pakistan’s strategic location provides a vital link between Central Asia and the broader South Asian region, facilitating trade and energy transit routes.

Opportunities for Pakistan within the SCO

1. Economic Cooperation and Trade Facilitation: The SCO’s emphasis on economic collaboration presents Pakistan with opportunities to bolster trade relations with member states. Initiatives under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), particularly the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), aim to enhance infrastructure connectivity, thereby stimulating economic growth .

2. Energy Security and Infrastructure Development: Pakistan stands to benefit from regional energy projects and infrastructure development under the SCO’s framework. Collaborative efforts in energy cooperation can address Pakistan’s energy deficits and promote sustainable development .

3. Counter-Terrorism and Security Cooperation: Through the SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), Pakistan can engage in joint efforts to combat terrorism and extremism, contributing to regional peace and security .

Challenges and Areas for Improvement

1. Geopolitical Dynamics and Diplomatic Relations: Despite its membership, Pakistan faces challenges in navigating the complex geopolitical landscape within the SCO. Instances during the 2025 Summit, where Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif appeared sidelined in interactions with other leaders, highlight the need for Pakistan to assert its diplomatic presence more effectively .

2. Security Concerns and Bilateral Relations: Ongoing security issues, particularly concerning Chinese nationals working on projects within Pakistan, have been a point of contention. Chinese President Xi Jinping’s call for enhanced security measures underscores the importance of addressing these concerns to maintain bilateral cooperation .

3. Internal Political Cohesion: For Pakistan to leverage the full potential of its SCO membership, internal political cohesion is essential. Unified domestic policies will enable Pakistan to engage more effectively in regional initiatives and negotiations.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Engagement at the SCO Summit

At the 2025 SCO Summit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s participation underscored Pakistan’s commitment to regional cooperation. His engagements with fellow leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, were pivotal in reinforcing bilateral ties and discussing collaborative projects. The summit provided a platform for Pakistan to articulate its strategic interests and seek support for initiatives aimed at economic development and security enhancement.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s role in the SCO is multifaceted, encompassing opportunities for economic growth, regional integration, and enhanced security cooperation. However, to fully capitalize on these prospects, Pakistan must navigate geopolitical complexities, address internal challenges, and assert its diplomatic presence within the organization. Through proactive engagement and strategic initiatives, Pakistan can bolster its position within the SCO and contribute to a stable and prosperous regional order.

For a visual overview of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s reception at the SCO Summit, please refer to the following video.

https://youtu.be/a4Uq-IbcCxs?si=qECTGgq55UoGxnKc

Syed Ali Raza Naqvi Bukhari

Unity of Peace, Economic Reform, and Global Unity

Founder & Chairman of Tehreek Istehkam Pakistan, and the author of “Law of God” and “Social Democratic System.” Advocates for truth, social justice, and reform in all sectors of society.