DPM Dar meets SCO secretary-general, discusses Pakistan’s priorities as new chair

Bishkek (Web Desk): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a meeting with the Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Bishkek, where they discussed Pakistan’s priorities and proposed strategy for its 2026-27 chairmanship of the regional bloc.

According to the Foreign Office spokesperson, the SCO Secretary-General congratulated Pakistan on assuming the chairmanship and expressed his support for Islamabad’s priorities during its tenure. He also assured Pakistan of full cooperation in carrying out its agenda.

During the meeting, Ishaq Dar briefed the SCO Secretary-General on Pakistan’s key objectives and plans for its year-long leadership of the organisation. The two sides also agreed to maintain close coordination and work together to effectively implement the priorities set for the chairmanship.

The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation and ensuring continued engagement between Pakistan and the SCO Secretariat throughout the chairmanship period. Both sides expressed their readiness to make joint efforts to advance the organisation’s shared objectives.

Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch and Pakistan’s SCO National Coordinator Mohammad Faisal also attended the meeting.

Pakistan formally assumed the SCO chairmanship for 2026-27 in September 2026. As part of its responsibilities, Pakistan will oversee various activities and initiatives of the organisation during its tenure.

The country is also scheduled to host the SCO Council of Heads of State summit in 2027, providing Islamabad with an opportunity to further promote regional cooperation, connectivity and economic engagement among member states.