ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is set to assume the chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Business Council in 2027, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to strengthen regional economic cooperation and enhance its role within one of the world’s largest multilateral organizations.
The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) will represent Pakistan during its tenure as chair of the council, reflecting growing confidence among SCO member states in the country’s contribution to regional trade and economic development.
The announcement was made following the SCO Business Council Board Meeting held in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, where FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh, who currently serves as Deputy Chairman of the SCO Business Council, led Pakistan’s delegation.
According to an official statement issued on Saturday, Sheikh reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to promoting stronger economic integration among SCO member countries by encouraging trade facilitation, investment, business partnerships, and private-sector collaboration.
The Pakistani delegation included prominent business leaders and industrialists who participated in discussions aimed at identifying new investment opportunities, expanding commercial ties, and exploring emerging markets across the SCO region.
The board meeting brought together representatives from chambers of commerce, business councils, and private-sector organizations from member countries to deliberate on strategies for deepening economic cooperation, enhancing regional connectivity, and supporting sustainable economic growth.
During his address, Sheikh highlighted Pakistan’s strategic geographic location, improving investment climate, and expanding economic potential. He said Pakistan is well positioned to serve as a regional trade and transit hub connecting South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
He stressed that the private sector must play a leading role in unlocking the region’s economic potential through increased business-to-business engagement, joint ventures, and cross-border investment initiatives.
Sheikh also called for greater cooperation in key sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, energy, information technology, logistics, infrastructure, and transport, noting that stronger regional connectivity would benefit all SCO economies.
One of the most important outcomes of the meeting was the formal confirmation that Pakistan, through the FPCCI, will take over the chairmanship of the SCO Business Council in 2027.
The statement described the upcoming leadership role as a recognition of Pakistan’s constructive engagement within the SCO framework and an opportunity for the country’s business community to help shape the council’s future agenda.
FPCCI Vice President Tariq Khan Jadoon welcomed the decision, calling it a matter of national pride for both Pakistan and the federation.
He said Pakistan is committed to working closely with fellow SCO member states to strengthen economic cooperation, facilitate trade and investment, and create new opportunities for businesses operating across the region.
Jadoon added that Pakistan intends to use its chairmanship to promote inclusive economic growth, encourage innovation, and support initiatives that contribute to long-term regional prosperity and stronger commercial partnerships among SCO member countries.
