Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will visit China from August 30 to September 4 to attend the 25th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of State Summit in Tianjin. The visit aims to enhance bilateral cooperation, strengthen economic ties, and discuss regional and global issues.
During his stay, the prime minister will hold important meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. These discussions will focus on deepening the strategic partnership between Pakistan and China, with emphasis on advancing the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Participation in Key Events
The prime minister is scheduled to attend a military parade in Beijing, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the World’s Anti-Fascist War. He will stand alongside President Xi and other world leaders during this significant event.
In addition, Shehbaz Sharif will interact with leading Chinese entrepreneurs and executives. The goal is to promote trade, attract investment, and boost economic cooperation. He will also address the Pakistan-China B2B Investment Conference in Beijing, where discussions will revolve around new opportunities for joint ventures and partnerships.
Strengthening the All-Weather Partnership
The visit reflects the ongoing high-level exchanges between Pakistan and China, which have strengthened the “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.” Pakistan continues to view China as a key partner in promoting regional stability, trade connectivity, and mutual economic growth.
Regular dialogue on regional and international matters remains a central pillar of the relationship, ensuring coordination on issues of shared concern. The trip is expected to reinforce Pakistan’s commitment to China-led initiatives under the SCO framework.
SCO Summit 2025 – Largest Gathering to Date
The SCO Heads of State Summit will take place in Tianjin from August 31 to September 2. This year marks the 25th meeting of the organization, which has grown significantly since its inception in 2001.
Leaders attending the summit include Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and heads of state from Central Asia, the Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. With ten permanent members and sixteen dialogue or observer states, the SCO has become one of the most influential regional blocs.
Theme and Key Focus Areas
The theme for this year’s summit is “Upholding the Shanghai Spirit: SCO on the Move.” Discussions are expected to revolve around security, counter-terrorism, economic integration, and trade expansion. Leaders will also deliberate on the bloc’s long-term strategic direction, focusing on greater cooperation in military, economic, and security fields.
Since its establishment, the SCO has transformed from a narrow security-focused grouping into a broad-based regional alliance. It now addresses not only counter-terrorism but also energy security, digital trade, and infrastructure development across Eurasia.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s participation in the SCO Summit highlights Pakistan’s commitment to regional cooperation and partnership with China. His meetings with Chinese leadership and participation in the investment conference are expected to open new avenues for economic and strategic collaboration. As the SCO continues to expand its influence, Pakistan’s active role reinforces its place in shaping the future of Eurasian cooperation.
