Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar Highlights Pakistan’s Role as Trade Hub for SCO

Islamabad, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar articulated Pakistan’s geostrategic location as an optimal trade and transit hub for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) region while addressing the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Astana, Kazakhstan.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Dar emphasized the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor’s pivotal role in regional connectivity and economic integration. He underscored Pakistan’s commitment to the SCO Charter and detailed the country’s priorities as Chair of the SCO Council of Heads of Government. These include promoting connectivity, transport links, youth empowerment, poverty alleviation, and fostering practical cooperation among SCO states.

Dar also stressed the importance of adhering to international law and the United Nations Charter, especially the peaceful resolution of protracted disputes as per relevant UN Security Council resolutions. He voiced concerns over bloc-based and confrontational geopolitics, advocating instead for a multipolar world founded on multilateralism.

The Deputy Prime Minister called for combating terrorism through united and cooperative efforts, targeting its root causes. He criticized the misuse of the terrorism narrative for political gain and reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong plea for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza and the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid. Furthermore, he highlighted the necessity of achieving a two-State solution to ensure lasting peace and stability.

On Afghanistan, Dar urged the international community to engage constructively with the Interim Afghan Government to support the country’s development and prevent its use as a terrorism base against any nation.