ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is gearing up to host a major diplomatic event as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit is set to commence tomorrow (Wednesday) in the nation’s capital. The high-level gathering will bring together top leaders from around eight countries, including China and Russia, highlighting the geopolitical importance of the summit.
Prominent attendees include Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, who will be among the key figures at the event. Both leaders are expected to hold separate meetings with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari, discussing crucial issues related to regional security and cooperation.
Extensive security measures have been put in place, with the coordination of multiple agencies including the Army, Rangers, Frontier Corps, and provincial police. From October 12 to 16, business centres, wedding halls, gyms, and key roads in Islamabad and Rawalpindi will be closed as part of the security arrangements. Heavy traffic and the Metro bus service will also be restricted from October 14 to 16.
Islamabad is adorned with vibrant decorations as it prepares to welcome the foreign dignitaries. Premier Li Qiang’s visit will extend over four days, focusing on both SCO summit activities and enhancing bilateral relations between China and Pakistan through the signing of key agreements.
In addition to China and Russia, leaders from Kazakhstan, India, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Mongolia, and Turkmenistan are expected to attend, along with SCO officials and business leaders. The discussions are expected to promote economic cooperation and address regional challenges, drawing global attention to Islamabad as the summit unfolds.
