📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Kazakhstan Prime Minister Office
International
SCO members focus on connectivity and trade at Islamabad coordinators' meet
✍️ indiatoday.in
🗓 01 Oct 2026, 08:17 AM
👁 15
Delegates of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation gathered in Islamabad to discuss ways to boost regional connectivity and trade cooperation.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) convened a coordinators' meeting in Islamabad, bringing together senior officials from its member states. The agenda centered on enhancing physical and digital connectivity across the region, with participants examining existing transport corridors and potential new routes.
Members also exchanged views on expanding trade ties, emphasizing the need for streamlined customs procedures and greater market access for small and medium enterprises. Discussions highlighted the role of infrastructure projects in facilitating smoother movement of goods and people.
While no formal agreements were announced, the meeting underscored a shared commitment among SCO nations to deepen economic integration and address logistical bottlenecks that hinder regional commerce.
The gathering reflects Islamabad's growing role as a diplomatic hub for multilateral dialogues in South and Central Asia, aligning with broader efforts to foster cooperation among the SCO's diverse economies.
Observers noted that the outcomes could shape future policy initiatives aimed at linking South Asian markets with Central Asian trade routes, potentially boosting growth prospects for member countries.
Members also exchanged views on expanding trade ties, emphasizing the need for streamlined customs procedures and greater market access for small and medium enterprises. Discussions highlighted the role of infrastructure projects in facilitating smoother movement of goods and people.
While no formal agreements were announced, the meeting underscored a shared commitment among SCO nations to deepen economic integration and address logistical bottlenecks that hinder regional commerce.
The gathering reflects Islamabad's growing role as a diplomatic hub for multilateral dialogues in South and Central Asia, aligning with broader efforts to foster cooperation among the SCO's diverse economies.
Observers noted that the outcomes could shape future policy initiatives aimed at linking South Asian markets with Central Asian trade routes, potentially boosting growth prospects for member countries.