At the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit held in Tianjin and Beijing (August 31 – September 2, 2025), Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif showcased Pakistan’s proactive diplomacy, engaging with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping to foster growth, connectivity, and regional harmony.
Strengthening Pakistan–Russia Ties with Vision and Cooperation
- On September 2, 2025, PM Shehbaz Sharif met President Putin in Beijing, where both leaders pledged to deepen bilateral cooperation across trade, energy, agriculture, iron & steel, transport, and connectivity. This commitment included signing new protocols and exploring a strategic trade corridor linking Belarus, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan—a move to boost regional prosperity through shared infrastructure.
- Reflecting on past success, Shehbaz underscored that increased imports of Russian oil last year significantly enhanced trade volumes and expressed confidence that commercial ties will continue to grow.
- President Putin praised Pakistan as a “traditional partner” in Asia, offering condolences for the recent natural disasters and extending an invitation to PM Shehbaz to participate in the upcoming SCO Heads Summit in Russia this November, which Sharif accepted with enthusiasm.
CPEC Phase-II: Launching New Corridors for Shared Progress
- In a pivotal meeting at the Great Hall of the People, Shehbaz and President Xi reaffirmed their commitment to the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). They agreed to advance CPEC into its next phase by initiating five new development corridors, setting the stage for deeper economic collaboration in trade, infrastructure, and connectivity.
- Xi reiterated China’s unwavering support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and development, affirming that both nations are ready to build an even stronger Pakistan–China community with a shared future.
Demonstrating Diplomatic Leadership and Regional Harmony
- At the conclusion of the SCO summit, Shehbaz underscored the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, and consultation—especially in discussions around the Indus Waters Treaty—calling for respectful regional engagement over conflict. His balanced approach—affirming respect for Russia–India relations while asserting Pakistan’s independent and strategic partnership—reflected a mature and forward-looking regional posture.
