Regional and international media has laid spot light on Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit scheduled in Pakistan on October 15-16. Significance of mega event is multiplied many folds due to varying nature of complex issues unfolding in the region. Being host of SCO annual events, Pakistan has to tackle a mix of opportunities and challenges at both internal and external fronts. This important event of SCO is taking place at a time when the world is confronting multiple security challenges linked to unrest in Afghanistan, extension of Gaza war in Middle East, cross border terrorism in Pakistan, manipulated forced elections in IIOJK and unsettled Russia-Ukraine war.
Divisions between powerful global blocs is detrimental to the much talked about idea of sustainable development of backward nations. SCO forum is flagbearer of a unique approach of engaging with member states disregarding the unresolved bilateral disputes. This pragmatic approach is the best way to move ahead on the path of progress by keeping the toxic issues at back burner. By hosting this mega event, Pakistan is reasserting its diplomatic influence among the international community. It is fairly assessed that SCO represents 40% of the world population.
It is evident that SCO remains the second largest international forum after the United Nations. Flawless conduct of SCO annual events would be remembered as a milestone in country’s diplomatic history. Trust of member states on security of Pakistan may be gauged from the fact that 11 heads of states and approximately more than 900-member delegates are participating in the main events and sideline meetings. Prominent role of Islamabad in SCO is strong reflection of rehashed diplomatic policy underlining disassociation from global blocs. Event has provided a vibrant opportunity for Pakistan to engage with regional stakeholders to explore the new avenues of cooperation.
Better utilization of this opportunity would surely enable Pakistan to overcome the tough economic challenges. Over a period of time, Pakistan has asserted more on displaying diplomatic maturity and emerged significantly as a regional stabilizer. On the contrary, aggressive posturing of India on various regional forums has radiated negatively and damaged the overall spirit of constructive regional bonding. Dysfunctionality of SAARC forum is the most relevant example to comprehend the spoiling role of New Delhi. During SCO meeting held in India, diplomatic arrogance of Indian Foreign Minister Jai Shankar with his Pakistani counterpart was noticed with concerns. PM Narinder Modi is also consistent in skidding away from SCO summits which most obviously reflects natural irk with the dominating role of China. Hesitant participation and spoiling role of India in regional forums should help Pakistan in preparing a list of ‘things not to do’.
SCO Summit in Islamabad
Ongoing global contestation among Western nations, China and Russia is another factor which continues to impact the forum like SCO in many ways. In Post SCO scenario, Pakistan needs to solidify the diplomatic engagements with the countries of particular interest. Consistency of constructive diplomatic engagements is the key to convert the verbal commitments in practical measures. Western bloc predominantly led by the USA is naturally apprehensive about the SCO and considers both China and Russia as strategic revivals. Growing influence of China and Russia through the SCO forum is a constant irritant for the Western bloc hence underdeveloped nations of Eurasian region would be endeavoring to balance the ties with rival powers. As far as Pakistan is concerned, any sort of unnecessary entanglement with India should be avoided keeping in mind the spoiler instinct of Modi regime.
The meeting of SCO Council of the Heads of States in a way is a polite but firm message to the apprehensive Western quarters. SCO has set a new course for global order which revolves around collective development, robust economic connectivity, climate specific collaborations and joint security measures. Smooth and flawless conduct of SCO mega event under complex challenging environments shines well on the resilience of Pakistan. Unwise protest calls from former ruling party and dubious activism of ethnic pressure groups are viewed with concerns by saner quarters. Parties and groups obsessed with the idea of agitating in federal capital, alongside SCO summit, have actually exposed their destructive mindset. It seems that sanity is a rare commodity in the ranks and files of former ruling party. Nefarious propaganda has busted on the face of spoilers as Pak-England test series is in progress and heads of the SCO member states including top diplomats are in Islamabad. This is a big blow to the forces inimical to the stability of Pakistan. This also speaks volumes about the undeterred resilience and diplomatic credibility of Pakistan.
