PM Shehbaz Sharif reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to sovereignty and regional cooperation at the SCO Summit in China. On Sunday, August 31, 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed the SCO Summit in Tianjin, China, emphasising Pakistan at SCO Summit, China’s respect for the sovereignty of all SCO members and neighbours, while advocating for regional connectivity.
Why It Matters
Pakistan at SCO Summit, China underscores Pakistan’s pivotal role in fostering regional cooperation, trade, and stability in South Asia, particularly through initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Pakistan at SCO Summit: China Highlights
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, speaking at the 25th SCO Council of Heads of State Summit in Tianjin, reiterated Pakistan at the SCO Summit China’s commitment to respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all SCO member states and their neighbors. He highlighted the importance of mutual trust and cooperation, aligning with the SCO’s core principles of fostering peace and economic development. “Pakistan respects the sovereignty of all SCO members, its neighbors,” Sharif stated, underscoring the need for collaborative efforts to address global challenges.
The SCO Summit, held from August 31 to September 1, 2025, saw participation from leaders of China, India, Russia, Iran, and other member states. Sharif’s speech focused on regional connectivity, economic cooperation, and the need for stability in Afghanistan to unlock trade opportunities. He also attended a military parade in Beijing to commemorate the 80th anniversary of China’s victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, reinforcing Pakistan at the SCO Summit, China’s strategic ties with China.
Emphasis on Regional Connectivity
During the SCO Summit, Sharif stressed Pakistan at the SCO Summit China’s role as an “ideal trade conduit” for the region, noting that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) complements the SCO’s vision of seamless connectivity. The launch of CPEC Phase-II, focused on industrial cooperation, was a key highlight of his visit, with discussions aimed at setting clear priorities for measurable outcomes. The premier also advocated for using national currencies in mutual settlements to shield SCO economies from global financial shocks.
Afghanistan and Terrorism Concerns
Sharif called for a stable Afghanistan to enhance trade and transit opportunities for SCO members. He urged the international community to engage meaningfully with the Afghan government while ensuring Afghan soil is not used for terrorism against neighbouring states. “A stable Afghanistan is not only desirable but essential,” he said, echoing Pakistan at the SCO Summit, China’s concerns about cross-border terrorism.
Bilateral Engagements
On the sidelines of the SCO Summit, Sharif held meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang to deepen the “All Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership” between Pakistan and China. According to the Pakistan Foreign Office, these discussions covered trade, investment, and regional developments. Sharif also addressed a Pakistan-China B2B Investment Conference in Beijing, engaging with Chinese business leaders to boost economic ties.
Background
The SCO, comprising 10 member states including China, India, Russia, Pakistan, and Iran, is a Eurasian political and security bloc aimed at promoting economic and security cooperation. Pakistan joined as a full member in 2017 and has since played an active role in advancing the organisation’s goals. The 2025 Tianjin summit, attended by over 20 world leaders, highlighted the SCO’s growing influence as a counterbalance to Western-led alliances, with discussions focusing on trade, security, and regional stability.
Tensions between Pakistan and India, exacerbated by the April 2025 Pahalgam attack and subsequent military escalations, cast a shadow over the SCO Summit. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, also in attendance, avoided direct interaction with Sharif, reflecting strained bilateral ties.
What’s Next
Pakistan at SCO Summit: China reinforces its commitment to regional cooperation and economic integration. With the formal launch of CPEC Phase-II, Pakistan aims to strengthen its economic ties with China and other SCO members, fostering stability and prosperity in South Asia.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, September 1st, 2025
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