Pakistan wants to enhance trade with SCO countries: FM Qureshi

BISHKEK: Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Wednesday said Pakistan wants to enhance trade with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) countries and that the organisation serves as an important platform for links amongst the regional countries.

Addressing a meeting at the Council of Foreign Ministers in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Qureshi said, “SCO is an important source of coordination among member countries.”

The foreign minister also called for a collective effort amongst the SCO member countries to meet the present day challenges and to achieve sustainable development and said Pakistan is determined to implement the charter of the SCO.

Speaking about Pakistan’s geostrategic location, Qureshi said China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) will help further promote links in the region.

Condemning terrorism in all its forms, Qureshi stressed upon the need for addressing the root cause of the issue. “Pakistan is amongst the few countries which have successfully countered terrorism,” Qureshi said.

“We [Pakistan] are ready to share our experience and expertise with our SCO friends to deal with terrorism,” he added.

On the subject of Afghanistan, Qureshi said, Pakistan will continue to facilitate the Afghan peace process owned and led by its own people.

He further said conflict resolution is important for peace and stability in the South Asian region. “Shanghai spirit is being reinforced through Kartarpur Corridor. Pakistan has given the message of peace by opening the Kartarpur Corridor for the Sikh community,” Qureshi added.