How Pakistan Shapes Policies within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
October 17, 2024
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has become a significant platform for regional cooperation and security in Asia. You might be curious about how Pakistan, a relatively new member, is shaping policies within this influential group. Pakistan’s entry into the SCO in 2017 has brought new dynamics to the organization, affecting its approach to economic development, security issues, and cultural exchanges.
As you explore this topic, you’ll discover Pakistan’s strategic objectives within the SCO and how it’s using its membership to address current issues like economic challenges and climate change. You’ll also learn about Pakistan’s role in hosting SCO events, including the upcoming summit in 2024, and how it’s fostering people-to-people connections among member countries. Understanding Pakistan’s influence in the SCO gives you insight into the changing landscape of regional cooperation in Asia.
1. SCO's Expansion and Pakistan's Entry
- Background of SCO’s formation
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) emerged from the “Shanghai Five” group, which was formed in 1996. This initial group consisted of China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and Tajikistan. The primary goal was to build mutual trust among member states, disarm border regions, and encourage regional cooperation. In 1996 and 1997, these countries signed treaties to deepen military trust and reduce military forces in border regions.
As the group evolved, it held annual summits to discuss security, political, and economic issues. The transformation into the SCO occurred on June 15, 2001, in Shanghai. This change was driven by the need for a more effective platform to combat threats of terrorism, separatism, and radicalism. Uzbekistan joined as a new member, and the group signed the “Shanghai Convention on Combatting Terrorism, Separatism and Extremism.”
- Pakistan’s journey from observer to full member
Pakistan’s involvement with the SCO began in 2005 when it gained observer status. Recognizing the organization’s growing importance, Pakistan applied for full membership in 2010. The decision to grant Pakistan membership was made at the SCO Heads of States meeting in Ufa, Russia, in 2015.
The process of joining the SCO as a full member took several years. Pakistan, along with India, signed a memorandum of obligations in 2016, initiating the formal process of accession. Finally, on June 9, 2017, during the SCO Summit in Kazakhstan, Pakistan became a full member of the organization.
- Implications for SCO’s regional influence
The inclusion of Pakistan and India as full members has significantly expanded the SCO’s scope and influence. With this expansion, the organization now represents approximately 24% of the world’s land area, 42% of the global population, and about 23% of the world’s nominal GDP.
For Pakistan, SCO membership has brought several benefits. It has bolstered the country’s regional trade and investment potential, enhanced security cooperation, and increased its diplomatic influence in Central Asia and beyond. Pakistan’s participation has positioned it as a central player in regional cooperation efforts, allowing it to play an active role in shaping regional policies.
The SCO has provided Pakistan with opportunities for economic diversification and the ability to play a crucial role in promoting regional connectivity. This is particularly evident through initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and broader Silk Road economic corridors.
Moreover, Pakistan’s involvement in the SCO has enhanced its geopolitical standing. It has fostered closer ties with Central Asia, China, and Russia, opening up new avenues for cooperation in various sectors, including energy, defense, and trade infrastructure.
2. Pakistan's Strategic Objectives within SCO
Pakistan’s involvement in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization reflects its keen interest in fostering regional peace, stability, and socio-economic growth. The SCO provides Pakistan with a platform to explore greater economic ties and cooperation within the region in key areas such as trade, investment, energy, innovation, and connectivity. As a member of this influential group, Pakistan has set several strategic objectives to advance its interests and contribute to the organization’s goals.
- Enhancing regional connectivity
You’ll find that one of Pakistan’s primary objectives within the SCO is to boost regional connectivity. The country’s unique geographical location at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East makes it an ideal trade conduit. Pakistan is committed to investing in collective connectivity capacities, which is crucial to advancing the shared vision of an economically integrated region.
To achieve this, Pakistan supports the SCO connectivity initiative and actively promotes projects like the Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). These initiatives aim to develop road, rail, and digital infrastructure, focusing on expanding trade routes and fostering economic integration across the SCO region.
- Promoting energy security
Another key objective for Pakistan within the SCO framework is to enhance energy security. The country recognizes the importance of cooperation in this sector and has been working towards developing partnerships in areas such as basic geological surveys, resource potential evaluation, and offshore oil and gas exploration.
Pakistan is also keen on promoting the use of renewable energy sources within the SCO. This aligns with the organization’s focus on sustainable development and green energy initiatives. By collaborating with other member states, Pakistan aims to address its own energy needs while contributing to the region’s overall energy security.
- Countering terrorism and extremism
Combating terrorism and extremism remains a top priority for Pakistan within the SCO. The country has been actively participating in joint efforts to counter these threats, which pose significant challenges to regional stability and development. Pakistan’s commitment to this cause is evident in its hosting of the Joint Anti-Terrorism Exercise (JATE) titled ‘PABBI – ANTITERROR – 2021’ at its National Counter-Terrorism Center.
Pakistan supports the SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) and advocates for strengthening multilateral counter-terrorism cooperation within frameworks such as the UN and the SCO. The country has pledged to work with other member states to find comprehensive solutions to address the root causes of terrorism and extremism.
In pursuing these strategic objectives, Pakistan aims to leverage its membership in the SCO to advance its national interests while contributing to the organization’s broader goals of promoting regional stability, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange. As the SCO continues to evolve, Pakistan’s role in shaping its policies and initiatives is likely to grow, further cementing its position as a key player in regional affairs.
3. Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges
- Pakistan’s role in promoting cultural diversity
As a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Pakistan has embraced its role in promoting cultural diversity within the region. You’ll find that Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance contribute significantly to the SCO’s cultural tapestry. The country’s commitment to the ‘Shanghai Spirit’ of mutual trust and respect for shared prosperity and development has paved the way for meaningful cultural exchanges.
Pakistan actively participates in SCO initiatives that celebrate the region’s diverse civilizations. With nearly 150 world-renowned natural and cultural heritage sites among SCO countries, Pakistan contributes to this collective wealth of attractions. By hosting cultural events and facilitating exchanges, Pakistan helps foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the varied traditions within the SCO community.
- Educational cooperation initiatives
Education plays a crucial role in strengthening ties among SCO member states. Pakistan has been actively involved in educational cooperation initiatives that aim to enhance knowledge sharing and academic excellence across the region. One significant development has been Pakistan’s participation in the SCO University program, which involves 74 universities across member countries.
This initiative promotes cross-cultural and educational exchanges, allowing Pakistani students and academics to benefit from diverse learning experiences. These programs not only enhance people-to-people connections but also contribute to reducing extremist factors in society by fostering mutual understanding.
Pakistan is exploring the possibility of establishing SCO universities within its borders. This move would further increase educational exchanges and boost Pakistan’s participation in the overall SCO cultural and educational landscape. By doing so, Pakistan aims to create more opportunities for its youth to engage with their counterparts from other SCO nations.
- Tourism promotion among SCO countries
Tourism has emerged as a key area of cooperation within the SCO framework, and Pakistan is playing an active role in promoting this sector. The country’s diverse landscapes, from the majestic Himalayas to ancient historical sites, offer unique experiences for visitors from other SCO nations.
In May 2024, tourism administration heads from SCO countries approved a Joint Plan of Action in Tourism for 2024-2025. This plan aims to create favorable conditions for sustainable tourism development, establish a common tourist space, and ensure high-quality tourist services across SCO member countries. Pakistan, as a participant in this initiative, is working towards upgrading its tourist infrastructure and improving air and road connectivity to provide easy access to travelers.
Pakistan recognizes the importance of simplifying visa processes and entry/exit formalities for travelers within the SCO region. By streamlining these procedures, Pakistan aims to encourage more tourists from SCO countries to explore its cultural and natural wonders. This not only boosts the tourism sector but also strengthens people-to-people connections among SCO nations.
Through these cultural, educational, and tourism initiatives, Pakistan is actively shaping policies within the SCO to promote greater understanding, cooperation, and socio-economic growth among member countries. These efforts contribute significantly to the organization’s goal of fostering regional stability and mutual prosperity.
4. Challenges and Opportunities for Pakistan in SCO
- Navigating India-Pakistan relations within SCO
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) provides a unique platform for Pakistan and India to engage in dialog without the usual bilateral tensions. This multilateral setting offers opportunities for informal conversations and track-two diplomacy, which can help ease tensions and maintain open lines of communication. However, challenges remain as India has previously used the SCO forum to continue its policy of isolating Pakistan. Despite this, Pakistan’s position within the SCO is strengthened by its close ties with China, a key member of the organization.
China’s support for Pakistan on issues such as terrorism has been evident in other international forums, and this backing is likely to continue within the SCO. This dynamic may limit India’s ability to put pressure on Pakistan through the organization. Additionally, Pakistan’s improving relations with Russia could further enhance its standing within the SCO, potentially creating a more balanced environment for addressing regional concerns.
- Leveraging SCO for economic growth
Pakistan’s membership in the SCO opens up significant opportunities for economic growth and regional connectivity. The organization provides a platform for Pakistan to increase bilateral and multilateral trade with member states, particularly after the completion of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Pakistan’s strategic location offers a natural link between SCO states and the Arabian Sea, positioning it as a crucial player in regional trade and energy transactions.
The SCO membership also presents Pakistan with the chance to address its energy crisis. As the organization includes both energy producers like Kazakhstan, Russia, and Uzbekistan, and consumers like China and India, Pakistan can establish closer relations with the ‘SCO Energy Club’ to manage its resources more effectively and ensure sustainable development. Furthermore, Pakistan can leverage its Gwadar port to become an important trade outlet for Central Asian states, potentially offering preferential access to SCO members.
- Addressing regional security concerns
Security remains a paramount concern for SCO member states, and Pakistan’s role in addressing these issues is crucial. The organization focuses on combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism, which aligns with Pakistan’s own security priorities. Through the SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), Pakistan has the opportunity to contribute to and learn from regional efforts to counter terrorist activities.
The SCO provides a framework for member states to collaborate on addressing the situation in Afghanistan, which has significant implications for regional stability. As a bordering country, Pakistan’s involvement in SCO discussions on Afghanistan is vital. The organization’s emphasis on finding peaceful solutions and sending strong warnings to extremist elements in the region can help Pakistan in its efforts to combat terrorism and promote stability.
However, Pakistan faces challenges in aligning its policies with other regional powers and improving its standing among SCO member states. To fully realize the benefits of its SCO membership, Pakistan needs to intensify its public diplomacy efforts and demonstrate its commitment to regional cooperation. By doing so, Pakistan can position itself as a bridge between Central and South Asia, contributing to the SCO’s objectives while addressing its own economic and security challenges.
5. Conclusion
FAQs
Pakistan focuses on several key areas within the SCO, including enhancing cooperation in combatting terrorism and extremism, addressing trans-national crimes, and fostering socio-cultural, economic, and humanitarian collaborations among regional issues.
The SCO originated from the Shanghai Five in 1996 and expanded after Uzbekistan joined in 2001. Pakistan, which had been an observer from 2005, was granted full membership in 2017 following its active and effective participation during its observer period from 2015-2017.
Joining the SCO was a strategic move for Pakistan to bolster its cooperation with other member states, thereby enhancing its contributions toward regional peace, stability, and development. Membership also supports Pakistan’s efforts in regional cooperation against terrorism and extremism.
Pakistan was granted observer status in the SCO in 2005.