Pakistan has formally joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, an organization of eight Eurasian countries, crafted by Russia and China in the aftermath of the break-up of the Soviet Union. The organization deals with issues such as terrorism, separatism and extremism. Ironically, India has also been admitted into the organization despite the fact it is using state terrorism to suppress the voices of dissent in occupied Kashmir and has been involved in unprovoked firing on the line of control. At a time the regional economies are collaborating with each other to fight poverty, hunger and disease, the Indian government is busy in its mischievous agenda to destabilize Pakistan. It is good omen that China and Russia are trying to stimulate business, trade and industrial activities in the region but the pathetic foreign policy of the Indian government has not only jeopardized peace, but also the economy of South Asia.
Pakistan has cordial relations with the United States, China and Russia. Experts hope the SCO membership could pave the way for the promotion of business and trade activities in the country. Pakistan has been facing terrorism for the last two decades and Indian establishment is actively involved in insurgencies in Balochistan and Federally Administrated Tribal Areas. However, the participation of Pakistan and India at single platform may help restore peace in Pakistan. On another note, Pakistan is part of the regional connectivity projects, including China’s Belt Road Initiative and it is hoped the organization will not fall prey to Pakistan-India hostilities. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has welcomed Pakistan’s inclusion in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and hoped the organization will be able to change the world into a better place to live. He also expressed his resolve to fully contribute to this collective endeavor.
Pakistan shares deep cultural, historical and strong strategic linkages with the SCO countries and its inclusion in the organization will not only promote economic activities, but also peace in the region. However, it is yet to be seen how India plays a positive role in the transcontinental organization as it has rendered the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation ineffective. The regional grouping is in the best interest of every member country and it is hoped sanity will prevail and India will desist from every action capable of destroying peace and economy in the region. Pakistan and India can enhance bilateral trade in billions of dollars for the benefits of the two nations.
