ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar stated on Thursday that the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit will enhance regional cooperation, trade, and financial integrity among member states.
Speaking at a media workshop organized by China Media Group in advance of the SCO summit, Tarar said that as positive developments in the national economy emerge, hosting the summit will bolster Pakistan’s image and future prospects. He described the SCO as a crucial platform for regional cooperation, highlighting it as an honor for Pakistan to host the event.
The minister noted that counter-terrorism measures and regional security issues will be key discussion points at the summit. He recalled that over 80,000 Pakistani citizens have lost their lives in the anti-terrorism struggle aimed at creating a safer world. Tarar expressed hope that enhanced regional cooperation in counter-terrorism will contribute to peace in the region.
Tarar also addressed the adverse effects of climate change on sustainable development, noting that while Pakistan’s share of global toxic gas emissions is less than one percent, the country suffers significantly from climate-related disasters like floods and cyclones. He stressed the need for a collective approach to combat climate change, stating, “With the cooperation of regional countries, we can address the climate change agenda.”
He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to promoting peace at the SCO, mentioning that the issue of Palestine was raised during the Astana SCO summit. Tarar asserted the importance of discussing Palestine at the upcoming meeting, emphasizing that lasting peace in the Middle East is essential for global stability. He called attention to what he described as the genocide of innocent Palestinians and the ongoing war crimes being committed.
The minister made it clear that achieving peace in the Middle East is vital for global stability, urging the civilized world to work towards an early ceasefire. He pointed to improving economic indicators in Pakistan, stating that hosting the SCO summit at this juncture would be advantageous for the country.
During the last quarter, Pakistan received remittances totaling $8.8 billion, while IT exports reached $3.8 billion. With 68 percent of the population being youth, many of whom are freelancers, Tarar highlighted the importance of digitization within the Federal Board of Revenue, which has resulted in a doubling of tax filers.
He emphasized the significance of the digital economy, advocating for the integration of regional countries through digital technologies. The minister noted that government measures have led to decreased interest rates and increased investment.
For a prosperous future, he urged a focus on enhancing the digital economy, trade, and investment. Tarar stated that Pakistan, due to its strategic location, has the potential to become a regional trade hub, particularly with Central Asian states, and called for greater financial integration and economic cooperation among SCO member states.
He thanked China, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates for their financial support, which has aided in finalizing agreements with the International Monetary Fund. Tarar concluded by advocating for increased cultural exchanges and people-to-people contacts among SCO member countries, asserting that stronger cooperation could lead to prosperity for the region.
