Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Masood Khan has praised the efforts of the Shanghai Cooperation organization (SCO) in maintaining stability in South Asia.
He expressed these views in a meeting with Muratbek Imanaliev, Secretary General of the SCO here on Thursday.
During the meeting, Ambassador Khan also underlined Pakistan’s strong desire to become a full member of the SCO.
Masood Khan said Pakistan has made tremendous sacrifices in the war against terrorism and is ready to work with the international community in tackling this problem. Pakistan’s efforts have brought stability to the region, he added
Ambassador Khan highlighted that ‘fighting terrorism is a national priority’ and no other country in the world has suffered as much as Pakistan. He made it clear that Pakistan values above all things its
independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Masood Khan underlined Pakistan’s keenest desire to become a full member of the SCO and said that there is natural complementarity between Pakistan and the SCO. Pakistan has always attended the SCO Heads of State/Government meetings at the level of the President and the Prime Minister. This shows the importance we attach to this forum.
Pakistan, over the years has enhanced its participation in the various activities of the SCO and it would be a matter of pride if it joins the organization as a full member early.
Ambassador Masood Khan congratulated the Secretary General on the 10th Anniversary of SCO. He said the organization has gained in stature over the past decade which has prompted many countries to seek its
membership.
Secretary General Imanaliev appreciated the important role Pakistan is playing in the SCO and said that ‘SCO belongs to Pakistan and SCO’s achievement is Pakistan’s achievement.’ He said SCO stands ‘shoulder
to shoulder’ with Pakistan in its efforts for bringing peace and stability to the region, particularly Afghanistan. He appreciated Pakistan’s humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan and indicated the readiness of the SCO member countries in providing all possible help to Pakistan in this regard.
Imamaliev emphasized that Pakistan has borne the brunt of the fight against terrorism and shown great courage in pushing forward the process of reconstruction in Afghanistan.
Masood Khan thanked the SCO for its consistent support to Pakistan and said that supportive voices bolster the country’s resolve in the fight against terrorism. He underlined that Pakistan’s efforts in this regard have contributed to peace and stability in the region. Despite facing many challenges to its economic development Pakistan has been leading the international efforts against terrorism, he said.