Shehbaz Sharif’s Address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in China

On Monday, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in China. He clearly said that Pakistan has always respected the sovereignty of its neighbouring countries.

Sharif’s key notes at the SCO summit:

On Saturday, Shehbaz Sharif arrived in China to attend the two-day Council of Heads of State summit. He said, “Pakistan has always believed in the power of multilateralism, dialogue and diplomacy, and shunning unilateralism. And yet, to our shock and deep disappointment, the region witnessed extremely disturbing developments during the last few months. Pakistan supports and respects the sovereignty and integrity of all SCO members and their neighbours.”

He also said to his fellow SCO member India, pointing to the Indus Water Treaty disagreement by India, “We respect all international and bilateral treaties and expect similar principles to be followed by all SCO members.”

He emphasised and said, “Uninterrupted access to due share of water as per existing treaties among SCO members will strengthen the SCO working smoothly and will support the achievement of broader goals for which the SCO was established.”

Shehbaz Sharif also ensured that Pakistan is meant for establishing peace in the region. He said that Pakistan has always strived to adopt diplomatic means to solve conflicts. He said, “Pakistan is always looking for a normal and stable relationship with all its neighbours. It seeks dialogue and diplomacy over conflict and confrontation.”

He requested and said, “We will continue our efforts, along with all SCO members and the chairman of SCO, to promote progress and prosperity in the entire region and to ensure lasting peace in South Asia.”

He also called for “a comprehensive and structural dialogue to discuss all outstanding disputes.” He said, “I will request your consideration to lead this dialogue under your sagacious leadership so that they can have its dividends as early as possible.”

He again said, “Pakistan has always abided by the UN and SCO charters and will always respect the principles that will hold dear to all of us for our collective good. As a peace-loving nation, Pakistan has always advocated dialogue and diplomacy, consultation over confrontation. For us, the SCO is a platform that best represents Pakistan’s abiding commitment to regional cooperation and integration. China’s successful tenure as chair of the SCO is reflective of President Xi’s sagacious and visionary leadership.”

Appreciation to the International bodies in flood relief:

Shehbaz Sharif also talked about the recent flooding in the country. He said that the people of Pakistan are now facing devastation due to the massive flooding in the country. In his words, “My country is once again passing through unprecedented torrential rains, cloudbursts and massive devastation due to consequent flooding in three of our major rivers.”

He thanked and appreciated the efforts of International bodies in standing with us in our tough time. He obliged their efforts, including China, for showing solidarity, sympathy, and support.

He also thanked China’s President for the warm hospitality and for their efforts in organising a successful SCO gathering.