ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is hosting the 23rd meeting of Ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states responsible for foreign economic and trade activities on Thursday (Sept 12) here to be chaired by Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan.

The ministerial meeting is the culmination of preparatory work undertaken during a series of meetings of the Commission of Senior Officials (CSO) of SCO member states ending in Islamabad on September 10-11, 2024.

In their deliberations, the SCO ministers will focus on ways to bolster regional cooperation for enhancing trade, advancing sustainable development and promoting connectivity among SCO countries for enhancing economic prosperity in the region. Deliberations and outcome of this ministerial meeting will be discussed and approved during the upcoming meeting of Council of Heads of Government scheduled to take place on October 15-16, 2024 in Islamabad.

Modi invited to SCO summit, says FO

Pakistan is hosting these meetings in its capacity as the incumbent Chair of the SCO Council of Heads of Government, the second highest SCO forum that deals with all economic, trade, social, cultural and humanitarian issues as well as the personnel and budgetary matters of the organisation.

The SCO represents a significant cross-regional bloc, accounting for nearly half of the world’s population and a substantial portion of global GDP. Strengthening trade and economic ties within this framework is crucial for addressing shared challenges and tapping into the vast economic opportunities the region offers.

As the host and Chair of SCO-CHG, Pakistan is dedicated to using this platform to promote enhanced economic cooperation within the region.

With its strategic geographical location and growing trade potential, Pakistan seeks to play a facilitating role in shaping the future of regional commerce and trade partnerships for the mutual benefit of the people of SCO countries.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2024