PM Shehbaz Addresses SCO Summit, Assumes Chairmanship

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of State meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, stating that water is the lifeblood of the region and must never be weaponized.

Speaking at the summit, Sharif emphasized that the region cannot realize its full potential without lasting peace and highlighted the Indus Waters Treaty, demanding it be honored. Sharif noted that Pakistan made immense sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and that its chairmanship will focus on "Connectivity, Innovation and Shared Prosperity." He also described the Islamabad MoU between Iran and the United States as a critical step towards restoration of peace.

The Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague has ruled that the Indus Waters Treaty remains operative and directed India to halt work on hydroelectric projects in dispute. Sharif reiterated Pakistan's commitment to resolving disputes peacefully and upholding international law.