Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while speaking at the virtual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) hosted by India, emphasized the need to unequivocally condemn terrorism in all its forms and expressions.

During the meeting, he described terrorism and extremism as a multi-faceted threat that must be vigorously combated, whether perpetrated by individuals, societies, or states. He firmly stated that the killing of innocent people can never be justified, regardless of the cause or pretext.

Furthermore, Shehbaz Sharif stressed the importance of not demonizing religious minorities for the sake of domestic political interests. He highlighted that the SCO upholds the United Nations' principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the right to self-determination. He also pointed out that the region's longstanding disputes could be resolved through the practical framework provided by the UN Security Council resolutions. He urged for their immediate and amicable resolution before it becomes too late.

Underlining the importance of a peaceful and stable Afghanistan in unlocking the true economic potential of the SCO region, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need for meaningful engagement with the interim Afghan government by the international community. He called for concrete measures to be taken by the interim Afghan government to prevent any use of its soil for terrorist activities.

Addressing the existential threat of climate change, the premier urged developed nations to fulfill their commitments and provide increased support to developing countries in mitigating and adapting to its effects. He stressed the necessity of global solidarity and a collective response to combat climate change, emphasizing that immediate action is imperative.

Highlighting the significance of investing in connectivity projects, the prime minister emphasized the crucial role of efficient transport corridors and reliable supply chains in realizing the shared vision of an economically integrated region.

Shehbaz Sharif recognized the transformative potential of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in fostering connectivity, stability, peace, and prosperity throughout the region. He noted that the special economic zones established under the CPEC framework, with direct access to ports, can serve as convenient conduits for regional trade promotion. Additionally, Pakistan plans to host the SCO conference on Transport Connectivity for Regional Prosperity in the last quarter of the current year.

The prime minister also emphasized the importance of increased collaboration for poverty alleviation. He announced the operationalization of the special working group on poverty alleviation proposed by Pakistan, expressing confidence that it will accelerate collective efforts to eradicate poverty and improve living standards.

Concluding his speech, PM Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Iran's full membership accession to the SCO, expressing optimism about the organization's significant benefits from Iran's inclusion. The prime minister also extended congratulations to Bahrain, Kuwait, Maldives, Myanmar, and the UAE on their accession as new dialogue partners.