Water is lifeblood of region, must never be weaponised, says PM Shehbaz at SCO summit

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized water's vital role during the SCO summit, stating it must never be weaponized or exploited for political gain. He reiterated treaties governing shared waters as "solemn, binding international commitments" that must be upheld. Pakistan pledged to resolve disputes peacefully and honor international law and UN principles.

He stressed the SCO's collective resolve to address regional challenges and deliver peace, security, and prosperity. The premier also highlighted Pakistan's advocacy for peace when a member state's sovereignty was threatened, leading to economic disruptions. The Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, facilitating regional de-escalation, was seen as a crucial step.

Pakistan recently signed the Trilateral Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, described as defensive in nature. The plight of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank was acknowledged, with a call for international support to secure their right to self-determination. On terrorism, Pakistan, as SCO chair, sought to strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation.

In Afghanistan, Pakistan called for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous nation, warning that terrorists using Afghan territory to harm Pakistanis would prevent lasting peace. The SCO region's vast population and resources were noted, urging leaders to prioritize regional connectivity as a strategic imperative. Pakistan's SCO chairmanship focused on IT and AI, energy development, poverty reduction, disaster management, health, culture, and sports.

The premier urged cooperation over confrontation, dialogue over division, and hope over fear, hoping history would record the SCO's role in shaping a better future together.