The inaugural meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of National Coordinators convened in Islamabad from September 28 to 30, marking the start of Pakistan’s chairmanship. The three-day gathering brought together national coordinators from SCO member countries along with representatives of the SCO Secretariat to enhance collaboration and practical engagement among the members.
During the sessions, participants reviewed the proposed activity programme under Pakistan’s SCO leadership, assessing progress on major initiatives and preparing for forthcoming SCO events and meetings. A key focus was placed on improving coordination among member states to ensure the effective execution of Pakistan’s chairmanship priorities.
Pakistan’s theme for its SCO tenure, “Turning Vision into Action: Connectivity, Innovation and Shared Prosperity,” guided the discussions, emphasizing actionable steps toward regional integration and development.
In a notable cultural exchange, delegations and SCO Secretariat representatives visited the Pakistan National Council of the Arts, where they received briefings on the nation’s rich cultural heritage and artistic diversity. Additionally, they toured the Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium and were updated on preparations for the SCO Hockey Tournament scheduled for November 20 to December 2, 2026.
On September 30, the national coordinators met with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Dar outlined Pakistan’s priorities for its SCO chairmanship and reaffirmed Islamabad’s dedication to close cooperation with all member states to further the organisation’s objectives.
The meeting concluded with a consensus, as the national coordinators pledged to maintain continuous engagement and strengthen practical cooperation to advance the SCO’s goals. Earlier, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to an open, inclusive, and constructive chairmanship, guided by the “Shanghai Spirit” of mutual trust, benefit, equality, consultation, and common development.
