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The Resilient Pakistan: Showcasing Diplomatic Success through the SCO
By Hamid Rathore
Pakistan, a nation founded on faith and resilience, has continually defied expectations, demonstrating an ability to navigate challenging circumstances. The country’s diplomatic efforts have frequently surprised both allies and adversaries. A notable recent achievement was hosting the 23rd summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Islamabad, an event that highlights Pakistan’s growing strategic importance on the global stage.
The summit attracted significant attention, with key leaders in attendance, including Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin. This high-level participation is a testament to Pakistan’s diplomatic capabilities, especially given the current political instability, security challenges, and economic pressures the country faces. Notably, despite an attack on Chinese nationals on October 6, Premier Li's visit underscores the strength of the Pakistan-China relationship and China’s commitment to supporting Pakistan.
The Formation and Role of the SCO
Established in 2001, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization began with six founding nations: China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Initially focused on combating terrorism and extremism, the SCO has since broadened its scope to encompass economic collaboration, energy cooperation, and cultural exchanges.
Pakistan became a full member of the SCO in 2017 and has effectively utilized this platform to address pressing security concerns, particularly threats posed by groups like the TTP (Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan) and BLA (Balochistan Liberation Army), as well as challenges from Afghanistan, India, and Iran. Through its involvement in the SCO, Pakistan has not only highlighted its security issues but has also positioned itself as a significant player in the global economy. With around 40% of the world’s population residing in SCO member states, the economic potential is substantial. Currently, approximately 30% of Pakistan’s exports go to these countries, emphasizing their importance as trade partners.
The Economic Impact and the CPEC Game Changer
A key element of Pakistan’s strategy within the SCO is the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), an ambitious infrastructure initiative that forms part of China's Belt and Road Initiative. CPEC has the potential to transform the economic landscape for both Pakistan and its SCO neighbors. By offering landlocked Central Asian countries—such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan—direct access to global markets through Pakistan’s Gwadar Port, CPEC paves the way for enhanced trade and investment opportunities. This connectivity will not only spur regional economic growth but will also solidify Pakistan’s role as a critical trade hub between Asia and the rest of the world.
Pakistan's strategic location, coupled with CPEC's infrastructure developments, positions the country as a vital gateway for SCO nations seeking to expand their trade access. As the project progresses, the integration of transportation and energy networks will facilitate greater economic cooperation among SCO members, providing crucial market access for landlocked countries. For Pakistan, this translates into new avenues for trade partnerships, increased foreign investment, and sustainable economic development.
Navigating Geopolitical Tensions
While strengthening ties within the SCO might suggest a shift away from traditional Western alliances, it is important to recognize the complexity of Pakistan’s geopolitical landscape. The country’s economic stability relies heavily on remittances, which often exceed export earnings and primarily come from non-SCO nations, particularly from Pakistani workers in the Middle East, Europe, and North America. Therefore, maintaining balanced international relations is essential for Pakistan.
In an increasingly fluid geopolitical environment, Pakistan must navigate its relationships across various alliances. For instance, India’s membership in both the SCO and the Quad—an alliance seen as counterbalancing China—highlights the need for Pakistan to carefully manage its diplomatic engagements. The essence of effective diplomacy lies in maximizing national interests rather than choosing sides.
Looking Ahead
Pakistan’s recent success at the SCO summit illustrates its capacity to leverage international platforms for strategic advantage. As the nation moves forward, it must remain flexible, concentrating on security, economic development, and regional stability while balancing relationships with both Eastern and Western powers. Enhancing connections within the SCO and capitalizing on initiatives like CPEC will be vital for Pakistan’s continued resilience and influence in a rapidly changing global context.
