Pakistan has formally assumed the 2026–27 chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), marking an important phase in the country’s engagement with the regional bloc.
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met the SCO Secretary-General in Bishkek. During the meeting, the SCO Secretary-General congratulated Pakistan on taking over the chairmanship and expressed support for Islamabad’s priorities.
Ishaq Dar briefed the SCO leadership on Pakistan’s priorities and strategy for its chairmanship. The SCO Secretary-General assured Pakistan of full cooperation and support in advancing its agenda.
Both sides agreed to maintain close coordination and cooperation throughout Pakistan’s tenure as chair. They also discussed continued joint efforts to promote the organisation’s priorities and to promote greater regional cooperation in areas including economic connectivity, trade, security, transport, energy and people-to-people contacts. As chair, Pakistan will work with other member states and the SCO Secretariat to advance strengthen cooperation among member states.
Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch and Pakistan’s SCO National Coordinator Muhammad Faisal also attended the meeting.
Pakistan’s chairmanship is expected to provide an opportunity to promote greater regional cooperation in areas including economic connectivity, trade, security, transport, energy and people-to-people contacts. As chair, Pakistan will work with other member states and the SCO Secretariat to advance common objectives and strengthen the organisation’s role in addressing regional challenges.
The government has emphasised that close coordination with the SCO Secretariat and member countries will remain important during Pakistan’s tenure. The chairmanship also gives Islamabad a platform to highlight its priorities and contribute to discussions on regional stability, development and shared economic interests.
The development comes as the SCO continues to expand its role as a major regional organisation bringing together countries across Asia and beyond. Pakistan’s leadership during the 2026–27 period will therefore be closely watched for its ability to facilitate dialogue and cooperation among member states.
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