Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has urged Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities to prevent terrorist activities from their territory. Addressing a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Tajikistan on Tuesday, he stressed Pakistan’s expectations for regional security.
Dar said Pakistan wanted Afghanistan to remain peaceful, stable and connected with neighbouring countries. He added that Pakistan had supported Afghanistan’s development and the welfare of its people. However, Islamabad expected Afghan territory to remain unavailable for attacks against Pakistan or other countries.
Read more: Ishaq Dar warns Afghan Taliban over rising cross-border terrorism
The foreign minister warned that lasting economic progress required long-term peace and security across the region. He described stability in Afghanistan as essential for protecting neighbouring countries. Dar also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peaceful relations and cooperation with regional partners.
During the meeting, Dar highlighted Pakistan’s priorities within the SCO, which has expanded its work beyond traditional cooperation. He recalled Pakistan’s role in hosting the organisation’s Council of Heads of Government meeting in Islamabad in 2024. He also noted Pakistan’s recent leadership of the SCO’s anti-terrorism structure and its work on poverty reduction.
Dar said Pakistan wanted stronger regional connections through trade, transport and energy projects. He also identified agriculture, mining, minerals and information technology as important areas for investment. According to him, these sectors could support stronger economic links among SCO member countries.
Read more: Pakistan urges Afghan Taliban to act against militant networks
He further highlighted artificial intelligence, digital development, energy cooperation and information security as areas for future collaboration. Dar also called for greater use of national currencies in trade settlements. He supported proposals for an SCO development bank, development fund and investment fund to advance regional projects and manage international financial pressures.
Dar said Pakistan’s SCO agenda focused on security, connectivity, innovation, climate resilience and people-to-people exchanges. He also highlighted the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor as an opportunity for wider regional cooperation. At the meeting’s conclusion, he congratulated Tajikistan and welcomed Uzbekistan’s upcoming chairmanship for 2026–27. Pakistan also looks forward to hosting SCO leaders in Islamabad for the Council of Heads of State summit in August 2027.