The Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS), University of the Punjab, Lahore, in collaboration with COPAIR organized a One Day Seminar "Significance of SCO for Regional Cooperation & Development", on October 15, 2024. The Seminar was presided by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Saleem Mazhar, DG National Language Promotion Department, Islamabad & former Vice Chancellor, University of the Punjab & former Director CSAS. Ms. Amna Munawar Awan, President Center of Pakistan & International Relations (COPAIR), Islamabad was the Chief Guest & Keynote Speaker, joined by the Host Speaker, Prof. Dr. Rana Ijaz Ahmed, Deptt. of Political Science, University of the Punjab. Prof. Dr. Naheed S. Goraya, Director CSAS welcomed the esteemed guests & discussed the crucial intersection of peace, security, and regional connectivity—an area that is essential for the prosperity and stability of regions and the world at large. Dr. Goraya said that today is the prestigeous moment for Pakistan to host the Heads of the Government meeting of SCO. Dr. Goraya mentioned that the member states of the SCO which represent approximately 40% (almost half) of the global population and contribute around 32% (nearly a quarter) to the world's GDP, providing an essential opportunity for its members to significantly influence the future trajectory of global affairs. Dr. Goraya said that in today’s globalized world, regional connectivity is no longer just a matter of infrastructure or trade; it is deeply intertwined with the peace and security of our nations. Therefore, ensuring that connectivity efforts are sustainable requires addressing key issues related to security and peace. She emphasized that Building sustaining peace, without resolving the underlying problems and disputes is hard to come by. Dr. Goraya added that we need to reflect, discuss, and propose innovative solutions that promote sustainabale peace, stability, and security in our interconnected world. Dr. Goraya in her concluding remarks expressed that this seminar is a timely opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue about how we can achieve effective regional connectivity while ensuring the peace and security of the areas involved. Ms. Amna Munawar Awan discussed the Socio-Economic cooperation among SCO Members. She said that SCO is the world's largest Regional Organization in terms of geography & population for political, security, defence & economic cooperation. She focused that hosting this summit by the Country is an important milestone in Pakistan's foreign policy. She was of the view that Pakistan has a unique opportunity to position itself as a vital connector in the region for regional cooperation. Ms. Amna stressed that economic cooperation can be made through entreprenurial development, digital economy, infrastructure connectivity & environmental sustainability. Prof. Dr. Rana Ijaz Ahmed talked about the New Political Blocks in the region amidst the security challenges. Prof. Ijaz said that this region increasingly focuses on cooperative economic and political relationships driven by shared interests in security, trade, and regional stability. He said that Traditional alliances are shifting, with some countries shifting from Western influences towards multipolar partnerships. He emphaized that rich in natural resources like oil, gas, and minerals. Landlocked states are seeking access to larger markets and investments. Prof. Ijaz also highlighted the challenges faced in forming the regional blocs, which comprise of Diverse Political Systems, historical tensions & external influences. He concluded that SCO is a potential bloc that has strategic and economic benefits, but significant challenges remain. However continued cooperation could create a multipolar balance in global politics, with these countries at the center of Eurasian geopolitics. He was of the view that Long-term stability will depend on how these countries manage internal differences and external pressures.
Prof. Dr. Muhammad Saleem Mazhar in his Presidential Address said that hosting the twenty-third session of the SCO in Pakistan is a great success for the country and it will open new avenues for the development of this region. This opportunity will be beneficial for the region in general & Pakistan in particular. He appreciated that holding a seminar on this important occasion & at the same time when SCO meeting is being held in the Country, is a commendable job accomplished by the CSAS which was the need of time. Dr. Saleem congratulated Dr. Goraya and her team for organizing such a timely & successful seminar on much significant topic. The seminar was followed by an interactive Q & A.