PM Sharif Urges Regional Unity, Dialogue at SCO Summit

TIANJIN: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday addressed the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, emphasising regional security, counter-terrorism, and Pakistan’s diplomatic priorities.

The premier said there was “evidence of foreign involvement in the Jafar Express attack,” reiterating that Pakistan condemned all forms of terrorism. “Terrorism and extremism are serious problems for the entire region. The world will no longer accept the narrative of terrorism,” he remarked.

He criticised the use of state terrorism for political purposes, stressing that Pakistan had “sacrificed not only for itself but for the entire region and the world.”

Commitment to SCO cooperation

PM Sharif said Pakistan would continue working with SCO member states for “peace, development and prosperity,” describing the organisation as “a platform for regional cooperation and integration.”

“All long-standing issues can be resolved through comprehensive dialogue,” he said, adding that Pakistan wanted peace in the region and sought normal relations through diplomacy.

Condemnation of aggression

On international issues, the prime minister condemned what he termed Israel’s “unjustified aggression on Iran,” calling it unacceptable. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for a two-state solution for Gaza as endorsed by the United Nations.

Sharif also highlighted Pakistan’s desire for peace and stability in Afghanistan, and “good relations with all neighbouring countries.”

Economic cooperation, sovereignty

The prime minister called the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) an “important project between Pakistan and China.” Emphasising sovereignty, he said: “Nothing is more important for any country than sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

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Sharif thanked the Chinese leadership for hosting the summit, calling China’s success “a reflection of President Xi Jinping’s visionary leadership.” He said the SCO gathering represented “the same spirit that China has put into practice.”

He also congratulated Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan on their Independence Day anniversaries before concluding his remarks by reaffirming Pakistan’s belief in the power of multilateralism, dialogue and diplomacy.