Beijing: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit holds substantial importance due to anticipated interactions with global leaders. The summit is set against the backdrop of critical situations in South Asia, including Pakistan-India relations and recent diplomatic engagements involving China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. There is optimism that the summit could facilitate discussions on improving ties between Pakistan and India, with China potentially playing a mediating role.

According to Radio Pakistan, Ambassador Fauzia Nasreen emphasized the potential of the SCO in fostering partnerships in South Asia, despite existing differences between China and India. The summit presents an opportunity for enhancing government-level cooperation in trade and investment. Additionally, there is a focus on business-to-business collaboration, with Pakistan encouraging foreign investment in its special economic zones.

The recent trilateral discussio
ns between Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China have highlighted the potential expansion of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan and Central Asia, with hopes of constructive participation from Afghanistan. The SCO, recognized for its progressive outlook, is expected to address issues such as food security, climate change, and regional security. A possible resolution may be passed to enhance security and address poverty and climate challenges in South Asia.

The visit also coincides with the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of China’s Victory Day, a significant event for China given its historical challenges. China has been actively investing in various sectors in Pakistan under the CPEC initiative, and the second phase sees investments in agriculture, mining, and other areas.