SCO Strategic Allies: Pakistan’s Role in Regional Counter-Terrorism Efforts

Expert: Amb. Zamir Ahmed Awan ®, Professor at NUST, Islamabad

Amb. Zamir Awan ® provided insights into the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and Pakistan’s involvement in it. SCO was established shortly after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 to address regional issues such as terrorism, extremism, and separatism. Initially formed by Central Asian states, China, and Russia, the organization has since expanded to include other countries, including Pakistan and India.

The importance of Pakistan’s membership in the SCO was emphasized. As a regional player and victim of terrorism and extremism, Pakistan faces challenges similar to those of other SCO member states. He noted that Pakistan has historical, religious, and cultural links with SCO member countries, particularly those in Central Asia, making its participation in the organization even more significant.

Pakistan’s national agenda, including its National Action Plan, aligns closely with SCO objectives. This alignment allows for mutual reinforcement of efforts and sharing of experiences in combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism. He highlighted the interconnected nature of these challenges, with terrorist activities often having links across borders within the SCO region.

Collaboration between Pakistan and SCO member states takes various forms, including information and intelligence sharing, joint actions, and mutual assistance in apprehending criminals and terrorists. The ambassador stressed that this cooperation benefits all parties involved, as terrorism is an international phenomenon affecting countries worldwide.

The SCO provides multiple platforms for collaboration, including summits, foreign ministers’ meetings, interior ministers’ forums, and specific gatherings focused on counterterrorism measures. Pakistan actively participates in these platforms, sharing its experiences and learning from other member states.

He further highlighted Pakistan’s success story in combating terrorism, noting a significant reduction in terrorist attacks within the country. This experience is valued by other SCO member states, and Pakistan continues to share its knowledge while also learning from others’ experiences.

The interview concludes by emphasizing the collective desire for peace and security among SCO countries. He expressed optimism that through collaborative efforts, information sharing, and addressing the root causes of terrorism, the SCO member states, including Pakistan, can make significant progress in overcoming these challenges in the near future.