Ishaq Dar, SCO leaders discuss stronger regional economic cooperation with Tajik president

World Desk: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar joined heads of government delegations from member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in calling on Tajikistan’s President Emomali Rahmon, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation to advance economic growth, connectivity and shared prosperity.President Rahmon welcomed the visiting leaders and underscored the need to strengthen economic cooperation among SCO member states to promote regional connectivity, stability and common development.The meeting provided an opportunity for Ishaq Dar and other delegation heads to engage with the Tajik president on the broader significance of regional collaboration at a time when countries are seeking stronger economic partnerships and improved connectivity.For Pakistan, participation in the high-level engagement reflects its continued diplomatic engagement with regional partners through the SCO, a multilateral organisation that brings together countries to promote cooperation in areas including trade, transport, security and economic development.As Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar has played a key role in representing Pakistan at international and regional diplomatic engagements. His participation in the meeting with President Rahmon highlights Islamabad’s engagement with fellow SCO members on issues of mutual interest.Regional economic cooperation remains an important priority for countries seeking to expand trade, improve transport links and create new opportunities for investment. Stronger connectivity can facilitate the movement of goods and people, strengthen supply chains and help businesses access wider markets.The SCO provides a platform for its member states to discuss these shared priorities and explore opportunities for cooperation. President Rahmon’s emphasis on economic collaboration, stability and shared prosperity reinforced the importance of collective efforts to address regional challenges and unlock development opportunities.For South Asian countries, including Bangladesh, greater economic cooperation and improved regional connectivity can also carry wider significance by supporting trade, investment and people-to-people exchanges across Asia. The engagement involving Ishaq Dar and other SCO delegation heads thus underscored the importance of sustained diplomatic dialogue and practical cooperation in building stronger economic links and promoting long-term regional prosperity.