Pakistan Clarifies Stance on Bloc Politics Amid SCO Summit in Astana

Strategic Insights -

Pakistan's foreign office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch clarified the country's stance on bloc politics, stating that Pakistan will not join any 'bloc' and believes in good relations with all countries based on mutual respect and non-interference. The clarification came as regional security club leaders met in Astana to challenge the global order led by the United States. Chinese President Xi Jinping called for an end to external meddling, while Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a new Euroasia security pact.

Key Takeaways:

  • Pakistan has repeatedly stated that it is not part of any bloc and does not believe in bloc politics, according to Mumtaz Zahra Baloch.
  • Pakistan's membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is not recent, and the country has been a member for several years, with a focus on promoting regional cooperation and connectivity.
  • Pakistan will host the SCO Heads of Governments meeting in October this year, with a ministerial meeting and multiple rounds of senior officials meetings to concentrate on fostering cooperation in finance, economics, socio-cultural affairs, and humanitarian efforts.
  • Pakistan and Russia have a positive trajectory of relations, with cooperation increasing in recent years in economic and trade matters, energy, connectivity, and regional issues, including Afghanistan.
  • Pakistan has one major concern regarding terrorist elements receiving support from sanctuaries and hideouts inside Afghanistan, an issue that will continue to be discussed with Afghanistan until effective action is taken.

Statistics:

  • Pakistan has been a member of SCO for several years.
  • Pakistan will host the SCO Heads of Governments meeting in October this year.
  • The SCO is a 10-member regional organization focused on promoting regional cooperation and connectivity.

Sources:

  • "Pakistan not part of any bloc, says foreign office". Dawn.
  • Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, "Weekly news briefing, Foreign Office, Pakistan".pickup.