PM Shehbaz Addresses SCO Summit, Assumes Chairmanship
FlatRigor 565 sources
The Story
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.
The Spread
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What they agree on
- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
- Pakistan assumed the chairmanship of the SCO for the 2026-27 term.
- Sharif stated that water is the "lifeblood" of the region and should not be weaponized.
- The summit addressed regional security, economic growth, and connectivity.
Where they split
- Some sources detail the specific theme for Pakistan's SCO chairmanship: 'Turning Vision into Action: Connectivity, Innovation and Shared Prosperity'.
- Coverage varies on the extent to which the Indus Waters Treaty dispute with India is discussed.
- Dawn and Geo News (English) are among the outlets reporting on the summit.
- The Nation (Pakistan) focuses more on Pakistan's role in regional connectivity and economic development.
Source Perspectives
Center4 sources
Right1 source