By Qamar Bashir
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conference held in Astana, Kazakhstan from 3rd to 4th July on the central theme of ‘Towards a SECURE SCO,’ attended by the Prime Minister of Pakistan Mr. Shahbaz Sharif, will focus on several key themes and objectives aimed at enhancing regional cooperation and addressing global challenges
including Security, Economic Development, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for Sovereignty, Territorial Integrity, and Environmental Protection.
Th theme encapsulates the SCO’s broader goals of fostering peace, stability, and prosperity among its member states China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, besides several observer states and dialogue partners that participate in various activities and meetings within the organization.
The SCO, encompassing major powers such as China and Russia, holds significant
influence due to its vast landmass, substantial population, and abundant resources. The
total landmass under SCO is 34.5 million square kilometers which is 23% of the world
landmass. With over 40% of the population, abundant energy resources, robust service
sector and a growing technological landscape, significant military, economic, and
political weight, makes the SCO a formidable counterbalance to Western influence,
particularly that of the United States and NATO, allowing the SCO to present a unified
front on various global issues.
While the SCO currently focuses on economic, political, and security cooperation, its
potential to evolve into a NATO-like military alliance exists. The organization already
engages in joint military exercises, counter-terrorism efforts, and regional security
initiatives. As geopolitical tensions rise, the SCO could formalize its military cooperation
mechanisms, transforming into a more robust security alliance. This evolution would
however depend on the geopolitical dynamics and the willingness of member states to
integrate their military policies more closely.
The SCO has its downside as well. Its primary focus on Central Asia, South Asia, and
East Asia, lacks direct representation from Europe, North America, and significant
Middle Eastern countries, impacting its global influence and reach. This regional
composition limits its ability to influence global geopolitics comprehensively and misses
out on diverse perspectives from these regions, affecting the depth of discussions on
global issues like climate change and international security. Moreover, the absence of
major Western economies restricts deeper economic integration into the global economy
and limits opportunities for technological and scientific collaboration. Additionally, the
lack of coordination with major global security frameworks like NATO can reduce the
effectiveness of anti-terrorism efforts.
By participating in the SCO conference, Pakistan aims to leverage its strategic location
and historical ties with member states to further regional connectivity and economic
integration, contributing to the overall stability and development of the Eurasian region.
The SCO provides Pakistan with an ideal platform to shift from seeking aid to
showcasing its strengths and assuming a leadership role. By leveraging its vast and
underutilized land in regions like Balochistan and KP province, and managing its mighty
glaciers to provide year long abundant water supplies, Pakistan can enhance its
agricultural output and become a key exporter of agro-products to SCO countries and
position itself as a leader in food security and sustainable resource management.
Pakistan, with its young and cost-effective workforce, burgeoning IT sector, and vast
natural resources, is poised to significantly benefit from and contribute to the Shanghai
Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The country's growing number of IT-literate men and
women are providing valuable services globally and can also market their services in the
SCO member countries, enhancing Pakistan's reputation as an emerging tech hub.
The fully functional yet underutilized Gwadar port stands out as a critical asset for
Pakistan. As a warm water port, it can provide essential access to the sea for landlocked
Central Asian countries, fostering regional trade and connectivity. Establishing peace in
Afghanistan and connecting Pakistan with Central Asian countries via land routes can
significantly enhance Pakistan's geo-political and economic leverage. By capitalizing on
these routes, Pakistan can facilitate trade, energy transit, and people-to-people exchanges,
driving economic growth for itself and the region. In turn, this will solidify the SCO's
role in promoting regional integration, stability, and development.
If Pakistan wants to become the most influential member of the SCO, it should first put
its house in order by taking steps like ensuring strong political stability and robust
governance. Stable political institutions and effective governance are critical for
consistent participation in SCO activities and commitments. Additionally, aligning with
the SCO's principles of mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for
cultural diversity, and pursuit of common development is essential.
Pakistan must demonstrate economic strength by fostering a strong and growing
economy, promoting trade relations with other member states, and investing in regional
economic integration initiatives. Effective management and utilization of its natural
resources, including energy resources, agriculture, and technological advancements, will
bolster its standing within the SCO.
Pakistan should also enhance its counter-terrorism capabilities, contributing to the SCO’s
Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure (RATS) through intelligence sharing, joint exercises,
and training programs. Besides, active participation in joint military exercises and
security cooperation initiatives with other SCO member states can solidify Pakistan’s role
as a security leader within the organization.
Strengthening diplomatic engagement with other SCO member states through active
participation in meetings, summits, and forums, and playing a mediating role in regional
disputes will further enhance its influence.
Promoting cultural, educational, and people-to-people exchanges by establishing
academic partnerships, cultural programs, and scholarships for students from SCO
countries can build soft power.
Investment in infrastructure projects that enhance regional connectivity, such as transport
corridors, railways, and ports, developing logistical capabilities, including efficient
transportation networks and trade facilitation, is vital for supporting regional trade and
economic integration.
Actively proposing and participating in regional development initiatives, such as poverty
alleviation programs, sustainable development projects, and technological cooperation,
can demonstrate Pakistan’s commitment to regional progress. Additionally, contributing
to regional energy security through cooperative projects in energy production,
distribution, and technology will enhance Pakistan’s influence within the SCO.
By taking these comprehensive steps, Pakistan can significantly improve its standing and
influence within the SCO, contributing to the organization's goals
