Pakistan Begins SCO Chairmanship in Islamabad

Pakistan has begun its 2026-27 chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of State with the first meeting of the Council of National Coordinators in Islamabad. The three-day meeting took place from September 28 to 30. National Coordinators from SCO member states and representatives of the SCO Secretariat attended the discussions. Focus on Pakistan's SCO Priorities During the meeting, participants reviewed planned activities under Pakistan's chairmanship. They also discussed key initiatives and preparations for upcoming SCO meetings and events. Pakistan has adopted the theme 'Turning Vision into Action: Connectivity, Innovation and Shared Prosperity.' The agenda focuses on regional connectivity, economic cooperation, innovation and stronger people-to-people links. National Coordinators Strengthen Coordination The Council of National Coordinators plays an important role in coordinating SCO activities. Its members help prepare major meetings and support cooperation among member states. Moreover, the Islamabad meeting provided an opportunity to discuss practical ways to implement Pakistan's priorities during its year-long chairmanship. Pakistan to Host SCO Summit in 2027 The meeting also began preparations for the next SCO Council of Heads of State summit. Pakistan is scheduled to host the leaders' summit in Islamabad in August 2027. In addition, Pakistan plans to host several other SCO engagements during its chairmanship, including ministerial meetings and working-level consultations. Cultural and Sports Activities As part of the programme, SCO delegations visited the Pakistan National Council of the Arts. They received briefings on Pakistan's cultural heritage and artistic traditions. The delegations also visited Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium. Officials briefed them on preparations for the SCO Hockey Tournament scheduled for November 20 to December 2, 2026. Moving Toward Practical Cooperation Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar told the National Coordinators that Pakistan wants to translate the SCO's shared vision into practical cooperation and tangible outcomes. As Pakistan continues its 2026-27 chairmanship, Islamabad will coordinate with member states and the SCO Secretariat on upcoming activities. The process will build toward the 2027 leaders' summit and other major engagements. Read More Articles: Pakistan to Boost Rice Exports to Malaysia China National Day Marked at Mohmand Dam Pakistan-Rwanda Trade Deal Opens East Africa