Pakistan will assume the chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Business Council in 2027, with the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) representing the country.
Atif Ikram Shiekh, President of the FPCCI, who also holds the Deputy Chairmanship of the SCO Business Council, attended the SCO Business Council board meeting held in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, read a statement on Saturday.
Sheikh reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to advancing regional economic cooperation, trade facilitation, investment promotion, and business-to-business connectivity among SCO member states.
The industrialist led a high-profile delegation, including leading businessmen and industrialists, aimed to explore new markets, enhancing economic and trade relations.
He apprised that the high-level board meeting brought together representatives of national business communities, chambers of commerce, and private sector leaders from SCO member countries to discuss strategies for enhancing economic integration, strengthening commercial partnerships, and promoting sustainable development across the SCO region.
During the meeting, FPCCI President highlighted Pakistan’s strategic geographic position, growing investment opportunities, and the country’s commitment to fostering stronger economic ties with fellow SCO member states. He emphasised the vital role of the private sector in unlocking the region’s vast economic potential and advancing shared prosperity.
Sheikh underscored the importance of enhancing regional connectivity, facilitating cross-border trade, promoting joint ventures, and encouraging greater collaboration in key sectors, including industry, agriculture, energy, information technology, logistics, and infrastructure development.
He highlighted that the most significant outcome of the meeting was the formal acknowledgement that Pakistan, through FPCCI, will assume the chairmanship of the SCO Business Council for the term 2027.
“The forthcoming chairmanship reflects the confidence of SCO member states in Pakistan’s constructive role within the organisation and presents an important opportunity for the country’s business community to contribute to shaping the council’s future agenda,” read the statement.
Tariq Khan Jadoon, VP FPCCI, stated that it is a great honour for Pakistan and FPCCI to be entrusted with the chairmanship of the SCO Business Council in 2027.
“We are committed to working closely with all member states to strengthen economic cooperation, facilitate trade and investment, and create new opportunities for businesses across the SCO region.
“Pakistan looks forward to leading initiatives that promote inclusive growth, innovation, and regional prosperity,” he said.