On April 18, 2025, during an official visit to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), Mr. Nurlan Yermekbayev, held a meeting in Islamabad with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, Mr. Muhammad Ishaq Dar.
A comprehensive exchange of views took place on the full range of the SCO agenda, including activities under China’s current chairmanship of the Organisation, as well as preparations for the upcoming meetings of the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers and the SCO Council of Heads of State later this year. The parties also discussed ongoing efforts to enhance the functioning of the SCO.
The Secretary-General commended Pakistan’s successful chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of Government (Prime Ministers) in 2023–2024, noting that the meeting was held on Pakistani soil for the first time.
M. Dar reaffirmed Islamabad’s strong commitment to actively participating in SCO mechanisms and contributing to their practical implementation for the benefit of the Organisation’s development.
The two sides discussed ways to strengthen cooperation within the SCO in areas such as regional security, international outreach, trade and economic relations, cultural and humanitarian exchange, transport connectivity, and the development of a financial support mechanism for the Organisation's activities.
Additionally, the Secretary-General held a meeting with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, Ahmad Naseem Warraich.
A wide range of issues related to cooperation within the SCO framework was discussed, particularly in the areas of regional security, trade and economic interaction, cultural and humanitarian cooperation, institutional development of the SCO, and the strengthening of its international ties.
The Secretary-General expressed his appreciation to the Pakistani side for its significant contribution to promoting cooperation within the SCO framework.
Both sides agreed to maintain regular dialogue.