The upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Heads of Government Meeting, set to take place in Pakistan on October 15-16, marks a crucial moment for the country in terms of regional and international diplomacy. As the host nation, Pakistan is positioned to influence discussions on key issues like regional security, economic collaboration, and terrorism. This summit offers an invaluable opportunity for Pakistan to redefine its role on the global stage, amid a complex and shifting geopolitical environment.
The SCO was born out of the Shanghai Five in 1996, with the goal of promoting stability in Central Asia. The organization has since expanded to include major powers like China, Russia, India, and Pakistan, making it one of the largest regional blocs in the world. Its member states represent over 40% of the global population and around 32% of global GDP, giving the organization a substantial influence over global economic and political affairs. Since its formation, the SCO has aimed to tackle a wide range of challenges, from counterterrorism and border security to economic cooperation and cultural exchange. The recent addition of Iran as a full member in 2023 further cements the organization’s role as a platform for cooperation among countries with diverse political systems and strategic interests. In addition to security issues, economic collaboration will also feature prominently in the summit’s agenda. SCO member states are increasingly looking for ways to enhance trade connectivity, reduce barriers, and create more robust investment opportunities. As a major transit route, Pakistan is well-positioned to promote projects that enhance regional trade, particularly through its Gwadar port, a critical component of the BRI. The summit provides an ideal platform for Pakistan to advocate for greater economic integration within the region.
For Pakistan, hosting the SCO summit offers a chance to assert its influence and strengthen its diplomatic ties within the region. With its strategic location and deep involvement in initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Pakistan is well-positioned to lead discussions on trade connectivity, economic integration, and regional security. The summit provides a platform for Pakistan to highlight its contributions to counterterrorism efforts and underscore its role as a stabilizing force in a volatile region. However, the potential for Pakistan to leverage its position within the SCO is complicated by the challenges posed by its complex relationship with India. Despite their shared membership in the SCO, Pakistan and India continue to face significant tensions, particularly over the Kashmir issue. India’s cautious approach to the SCO, reflected in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s absence from the recent Astana summit, raises concerns about its commitment to regional cooperation.
India’s relationship with the SCO has been marked by tension and hesitation. While India formally joined the organization in 2017, its participation has often been overshadowed by its bilateral disputes with both China and Pakistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to skip the Astana summit and the virtual format of the previous SCO meeting reflect India’s ambivalence toward the organization. India’s hesitance to engage fully with the SCO, particularly in light of its disputes with both Pakistan and China, could hamper the organization’s efforts to foster greater regional collaboration. While the SCO provides a valuable forum for dialogue, India’s bilateral conflicts with Pakistan and China undermine the spirit of cooperation that the organization seeks to promote. The extent to which these tensions will affect the summit remains to be seen, but they are likely to be a factor in the broader dynamics of the meeting.
The growing influence of the SCO has not gone unnoticed by the West. Many Western nations, particularly the United States, view the organization as a strategic counterweight to Western influence in Eurasia. The SCO’s calls for a “new democratic and fair world order” have only fueled Western concerns about its objectives. However, the organization’s emphasis on counterterrorism, economic collaboration, and regional stability aligns with global priorities, making it a crucial player in international diplomacy. For Pakistan, this means navigating the fine line between regional cooperation and Western skepticism, positioning itself as both a mediator and a proactive member of the SCO.
As Pakistan prepares to host the SCO summit, it faces both challenges and opportunities. The event presents a unique chance for the country to assert its leadership on the global stage, fostering dialogue on issues that are critical to regional stability. By positioning itself as a key facilitator of cooperation within the SCO, Pakistan can enhance its standing in the international community while contributing to the collective success of the organization.