Sir: Pakistan has become a permanent member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) during its recent summit meeting held in Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the decision to include the nuclear-armed neighbour at the 15th SCO summit. This membership is a diplomatic achievement of the government and a due acknowledgement of Pakistan’s effective contribution to lasting peace in the region. The SCO, which was founded by six countries in 2001, will have its first time extension with inclusion of Pakistan and India. Pakistan’s efforts to wipe out the menace of terrorism, directly qualified it for the membership as the organisation’s prime objective is to counter terrorism in the region. It is hoped that this membership will further strengthen Pakistan’s efforts against terrorism.FARVAT MALIKLahore