TIANJIN:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif used the platform of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of State summit on Monday to deliver a comprehensive message, urging member states to respect international treaties, recognize Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, and address pressing challenges such as climate change.
In his address to leaders of the 10-member Eurasian bloc, including India, Shehbaz highlighted Pakistan’s concerns over the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) following India’s unilateral suspension earlier this year. He stressed that uninterrupted access to Pakistan’s share of water under existing agreements was vital not only for Pakistan but also for ensuring the SCO’s objectives of stability and cooperation.
“We respect all international and bilateral treaties and expect similar principles from all SCO members,” Shehbaz said, urging regional leaders to support a “comprehensive and structured dialogue” to resolve disputes.
The premier emphasized Pakistan’s preference for diplomacy over confrontation, reaffirming the country’s commitment to peaceful and stable relations with its neighbors. “Pakistan has always believed in multilateralism, dialogue, and diplomacy while rejecting unilateralism,” he added.
Climate and Security Concerns
Shehbaz also drew attention to Pakistan’s recurring struggle with climate-induced disasters, pointing to the recent spell of torrential rains and widespread flooding across major rivers. “Despite contributing less than one percent to global emissions, countries like Pakistan are paying the heaviest price,” he said, urging global leadership to take responsibility and act before more lives and livelihoods are lost.
Touching on security, the prime minister condemned recent terrorist incidents, including the hijacking of the Jaffar Express in Balochistan that claimed 26 lives, most of them security personnel. He said Pakistan had “irrefutable evidence” of foreign involvement in such attacks.
“Pakistan has sacrificed over 90,000 lives and suffered economic losses exceeding $152 billion in the war against terrorism a sacrifice with no parallel in history,” he told the summit.
Afghanistan, Gaza, and Regional Connectivity
Calling for peace in Afghanistan, Shehbaz stressed the importance of connectivity through efficient land, air, and rail corridors. He cited the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a model of SCO’s vision for integration, noting that the second phase would focus on agriculture, smart cities, and advanced technology.
The premier also strongly condemned Israel’s “unjustified bloodshed” in Gaza and its recent strikes on Iran, an SCO member. “Such aggression is condemnable and unacceptable,” he said.
Diplomatic Engagements on Sidelines
On the sidelines of the summit, Shehbaz met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. President Pezeshkian expressed solidarity with Pakistan over its ongoing flood crisis and offered support.
The prime minister also held discussions with a delegation from Tianjin Binhai New Area, led by Party Secretary Lian Maojun. He praised China’s role in Pakistan’s economic development, highlighting CPEC’s role in boosting energy and infrastructure. The delegation showed keen interest in expanding trade, particularly in e-commerce and industrial collaboration.
Shehbaz welcomed President Xi Jinping’s Global Governance Initiative (GGI), calling it “a historic step towards a stronger multilateral system,” and praised the successful adoption of the Tianjin Declaration at the summit.
