After wrapping up his visit to Japan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit 2025. Modi's arrival on Saturday also marks the prime minister's first visit to China in seven years.


Former Indian diplomat Anil Trigunayat shares his view on what's at stake at the SCO summit

SCO summit 2025: Putin, Pezeshkian & Erdogan expected to arrive in Beijing soon 

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is fast emerging as a major global power centre. With Asian superpowers gathering for the summit, debates intensify on its strengths, weaknesses, threats and opportunities compared to blocs like G7 and BRICS. Can SCO extend its influence and reshape global order?


SCO summit 2025: Will SCO emerge as new global platform? 

PM Modi in Japan: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to Japan to attend the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit. During his trip, PM Modi will meet Japanese leaders, industrialists, and the Indian community. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a high-speed bullet train ride from Tokyo to Sendai during his Japan visit, showcasing India-Japan’s growing technological and infrastructure partnership.


PM Modi Japan visit: PM Modi & Japanese PM Ishiba experience Japan's rail technology 

 #GRAVITAS| Listing out the priorities for the coming decade, PM Modi charted a future roadmap based on common areas of focus. PM Modi also made a strong economic pitch, urging Japanese investors to 'Make in India'. Furthering co-operation, Japan has also pledged to invest $86 Billion in India and have committed to join hands in other projects including space missions. Meanwhile, all eyes are on Modi-Xi meet amid U.S. tariff blow. Watch this video to find out more. 


PM Modi charts a future roadmap with Japanese PM for 2035 

PM Modi in Japan: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to Japan to attend the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit. During his trip, PM Modi will meet Japanese leaders, industrialists, and the Indian community. The visit will also focus on enhancing regional and global peace, security, and sustainable development.


PM Modi in Japan: PM Modi pitches India as a global investment hub

PM Modi in Japan: PM Modi invites Japanese investors with strong ‘make in India’ pitch 

PM Modi in Japan: India's PM Modi & Japan PM's Ishiba joint press conference

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba deliver joint press statements after signing of MOU.

PM Modi in Japan: India's PM Modi & Japan PM's Ishiba joint press conference

SCO Summit 2025: All Eyes On Modi-Xi Meet On SCO Sidelines In China On August 31 | WION 

PM Modi will travel to Tianjin from August 31 to September 1 to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.

SCO Summit 2025: All eyes on Modi-Xi meet on SCO sidelines in China on August 31

PM Modi will travel to Tianjin from August 31 to September 1 to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.

SCO Summit 2025: Putin, Modi, and Xi will soon be under the same roof amid Trump’s tariff tirade 

PM Modi in Japan: India eyes AI, semiconductors, quantum tech with Japan 

Prime Minister Modi is visiting Japan and China to strengthen economic and tech partnerships, attend the SCO Summit, and hold talks with Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin.


PM Modi leaves for Japan: key visit to Japan, China amid tariff tirade 

What is the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), and why is it gaining global attention? This in-depth package unpacks everything — from the group’s origin in the post-Cold War era, its five founding members, and its evolution into a major political, economic, and security alliance.

We also break down current expansion talks, India’s role, regional dynamics, and why the SCO is being seen as a counterweight to Western alliances like NATO.


SCO Explained: Origin, founding members, expansion & global influence

SCO 2025: China is preparing to host the 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Tianjin. The SCO Secretary-General highlighted the key priorities and goals of the upcoming summit, which will bring together leaders from across Asia and beyond.

SCO to adopt WWII 80th anniversary statement | China prepares for summit

SCO 2025: China is preparing to host the 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Tianjin. The SCO Secretary-General highlighted the key priorities and goals of the upcoming summit, which will bring together leaders from across Asia and beyond.


SCO 2025: China’s Tianjin to Play Host, Chief Highlights Priorities 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit China this month, weeks after the United States imposed tariffs on New Delhi for buying Russian oil and weapons. He will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit 2025. Here's a look at how much oil trade and China carried out with Russia, one of the United States' oldest strategic rivals, in July.&nbsp;The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), a Finnish non-profit that focuses on revealing the trends, causes, and health impacts of air pollution, said in a July report that Russian monthly fossil fuel export revenues saw a 3% month-on-month decline.&nbsp;Russia has been withstanding crippling sanctions from Western countries, including the US, since it invaded Ukraine. Some US lawmakers have accused India of funding Moscow's war in Ukraine by buying Russian oil exports.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sco-summit-india-and-china-a-business-secret-you-probably-didn-t-know-1755950660213">Also read: SCO Summit: India and China, a business secret you probably didn't know</a>&nbsp;New Delhi says it is acting in its people's interests when it buys discounted Russian oil.&nbsp;CREA said in its July report that the five largest European Union importers of Russian fossil fuels paid Russia a total of EUR 1.1 bn for fossil fuel purchases. 67 per cent of this is natural gas, which isn't sanctioned by the EU.&nbsp;China is the largest international buyer of Russian fossil fuels in July 2025, accounting for 42 per cent of its monthly export earnings from the top five countries. 66 per cent of these imports were crude oil (EUR 4.1 billion).&nbsp;India remained the second-largest purchaser of Russian fossil fuels, importing fossil fuels worth EUR 3.5 bn. Crude oil accounted for 78% (EUR 2.7 bn) of these imports.&nbsp;Turkiye was the third-largest importer of Russian fossil fuels in July, contributing 21% (EUR 3.1 bn) of the total export earnings. However, its crude oil imports were one-third of its total imports from Russia.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shanghai-cooperation-organisation-summit-how-much-do-member-nations-contribute-to-the-world-s-gdp-1755946170254">Also read: Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit: How much do member nations contribute to the world's GDP?</a>&nbsp;The EU was the fourth-largest buyer of Russian fossil fuels. Seventy percent of these imports were Russian LNG and gas via pipeline.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia bought EUR 489 mn of Russian fossil fuels in July -- most were oil products.&nbsp;The US singled India out when it comes to tariffs for purchasing Russian oil products.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit China this month, weeks after the United States imposed tariffs on New Delhi for buying Russian oil and weapons. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit China this month, weeks after the United States imposed tariffs on New Delhi for buying Russian oil and weapons. He will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit 2025. Here's a look at how much oil trade and China carried out with Russia, one of the United States' oldest strategic rivals, in July. The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), a Finnish non-profit that focuses on revealing the trends, causes, and health impacts of air pollution, said in a July report that Russian monthly fossil fuel export revenues saw a 3% month-on-month decline. Russia has been withstanding crippling sanctions from Western countries, including the US, since it invaded Ukraine. Some US lawmakers have accused India of funding Moscow's war in Ukraine by buying Russian oil exports. Also read: SCO Summit: India and China, a business secret you probably didn't know New Delhi says it is acting in its people's interests when it buys discounted Russian oil. CREA said in its July report that the five largest European Union importers of Russian fossil fuels paid Russia a total of EUR 1.1 bn for fossil fuel purchases. 67 per cent of this is natural gas, which isn't sanctioned by the EU. China is the largest international buyer of Russian fossil fuels in July 2025, accounting for 42 per cent of its monthly export earnings from the top five countries. 66 per cent of these imports were crude oil (EUR 4.1 billion). India remained the second-largest purchaser of Russian fossil fuels, importing fossil fuels worth EUR 3.5 bn. Crude oil accounted for 78% (EUR 2.7 bn) of these imports. Turkiye was the third-largest importer of Russian fossil fuels in July, contributing 21% (EUR 3.1 bn) of the total export earnings. However, its crude oil imports were one-third of its total imports from Russia. Also read: Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit: How much do member nations contribute to the world's GDP? The EU was the fourth-largest buyer of Russian fossil fuels. Seventy percent of these imports were Russian LNG and gas via pipeline. Saudi Arabia bought EUR 489 mn of Russian fossil fuels in July -- most were oil products. The US singled India out when it comes to tariffs for purchasing Russian oil products.

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit: India or China - who buys more Russian oil exports?

SCO Summit: How much oil did China and India purchase from Russia in July?

India and China are giving their ties a major boost. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is in Delhi for talks with EAM Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval, and PM Modi.
The visit comes just ahead of Modi’s first trip to China in seven years for the SCO Summit, where he is set to meet Xi Jinping.
While border tensions linger, U.S. tariff pressure is pushing Delhi and Beijing to find common ground.

India–China Reset? Doval–Wang Border Talks, Modi–Xi Meet

As the dust settles over Pakistan hosting the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's (SCO) head of government meeting, it is clear in the Indian subcontinent that the group is all about India-Pakistan engagement. To understand SCO, a group that was formed in 2001, one needs to understand its protocols and the group.&nbsp; 
 
SCO has 10 members, India, Pakistan, Russia, China, Iran, Belarus and the four central Asian countries viz., Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. In 2017&nbsp;the group expanded to include India and Pakistan. Since then, two expansions have taken place to include Iran and Belarus.

Each member of the grouping gets to chair the summit, which involves the head of state (HoS), and the head of government (HoG) which is basically at the prime minister's level. Whoever hosts the HoS summit is the chair of the grouping for that year and hosts all major events associated with SCO that year, which includes foreign ministers, defence ministers, and security officials. India was the chair of SCO last year and hosted the summit and other related meetings, virtually.

The events included the foreign ministers' meeting as well, which saw then-Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto travelling to Goa. His visit naturally dominated the foreign minister meeting, since he decided to host an ill-conceived presser involving just the Pakistani media and mentioned Kashmir. India's response was strong, and External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar's presser was a visible manifestation of seething anger.

The ghost of Goa was buried with the "courteous" actions of Jaishankar, as described by himself ahead of the visit. A few days ahead of his visit, the EAM&nbsp;said that he was going to Islamabad in a multilateral context and not to discuss India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

"Since I'm a courteous, civil person, I will behave myself accordingly."

Two public handshakes, one national statement, one tree planting and one morning walk all that in the almost 24-hour-long visit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sco-summit-in-pakistan-767979">Watch |&nbsp;SCO Summit in Pakistan</a>

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Pakistani media and officials have been in full flurry of sending feelers that Islamabad, Rawalpindi and Jati Umra are on the same page on talks with India. Cricket is seen as low-hanging fruit by them, though it has been dismissed by the Indian side that resumption of cricket ties is not on the cards. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Thursday (Oct 17) said: "Nothing of that sort happened...also the reports were not accurate.”

As the hullabaloo over the visit dies down, the point is clear, New Delhi's policy of "talks and terror" can't go together, continues. The policy that came into being after Pathankot (2016) and the Pulwama terror attack (2019), has seen a decreased engagement with Pakistan in all spheres – political, entertainment and sports. After India removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan cut down further engagement, by expelling an Indian envoy, cutting rail, road, and bus linkages and stopping trade to almost nil barring pharma.

Pakistan will continue to harp on Kashmir, as seen ahead of Indian EAM’s visit by comments made by Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Islamabad cannot let go of Kashmir rhetoric, simply because the political rhetoric in the country is tied to it. The country won't be able to do anything much about&nbsp;it, other than making comments that serve the "establishment".&nbsp;&nbsp;

Even Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who once found it quite fashionable to mention Kashmir at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), has now moved on to matters he deems more pressing. When even your allies start to ignore the script, it's time to consider one might be performing in an empty house.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sco-roundup-india-opposes-chinas-obor-jaishankar-schools-pakistan-and-more-768020">Also read |&nbsp;SCO roundup: India opposes China's OBOR, Jaishankar schools Pakistan, and more</a>

Today, New Delhi has no interest, incentive or stakeholdership in talking to Pakistan. The country has been supportive of anti-India elements, and terror groups like JeM, LeT, and tiredness remains over the conversational quagmire with Islamabad. 70 years is a long time, and for India's next generation, they look upon Pakistan not with the burdened eyes of history but with the indifference of those who have moved on. No stakes, no baggage – just another dot on the map.

Coke Studio Pakistan may be popular for many while going to work in Gurgaon, Mumbai and Bengaluru but it is only there till the playlist changes to the next new song. For many Indians today, Pakistan is just another country, a country with which India has a negative past and an uncertain future.

Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

As the dust settles over Pakistan hosting the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's (SCO) head of government meeting, it is clear in the Indian subcontinent that the group is all about India-Pakistan engagement.

As the dust settles over Pakistan hosting the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's (SCO) head of government meeting, it is clear in the Indian subcontinent that the group is all about India-Pakistan engagement. To understand SCO, a group that was formed in 2001, one needs to understand its protocols and the group. SCO has 10 members, India, Pakistan, Russia, China, Iran, Belarus and the four central Asian countries viz., Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. In 2017 the group expanded to include India and Pakistan. Since then, two expansions have taken place to include Iran and Belarus. Each member of the grouping gets to chair the summit, which involves the head of state (HoS), and the head of government (HoG) which is basically at the prime minister's level. Whoever hosts the HoS summit is the chair of the grouping for that year and hosts all major events associated with SCO that year, which includes foreign ministers, defence ministers, and security officials. India was the chair of SCO last year and hosted the summit and other related meetings, virtually. The events included the foreign ministers' meeting as well, which saw then-Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto travelling to Goa. His visit naturally dominated the foreign minister meeting, since he decided to host an ill-conceived presser involving just the Pakistani media and mentioned Kashmir. India's response was strong, and External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar's presser was a visible manifestation of seething anger. The ghost of Goa was buried with the "courteous" actions of Jaishankar, as described by himself ahead of the visit. A few days ahead of his visit, the EAM said that he was going to Islamabad in a multilateral context and not to discuss India and Pakistan. "Since I'm a courteous, civil person, I will behave myself accordingly." Two public handshakes, one national statement, one tree planting and one morning walk all that in the almost 24-hour-long visit. Watch | SCO Summit in Pakistan × Pakistani media and officials have been in full flurry of sending feelers that Islamabad, Rawalpindi and Jati Umra are on the same page on talks with India. Cricket is seen as low-hanging fruit by them, though it has been dismissed by the Indian side that resumption of cricket ties is not on the cards. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Thursday (Oct 17) said: "Nothing of that sort happened...also the reports were not accurate.” As the hullabaloo over the visit dies down, the point is clear, New Delhi's policy of "talks and terror" can't go together, continues. The policy that came into being after Pathankot (2016) and the Pulwama terror attack (2019), has seen a decreased engagement with Pakistan in all spheres – political, entertainment and sports. After India removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan cut down further engagement, by expelling an Indian envoy, cutting rail, road, and bus linkages and stopping trade to almost nil barring pharma. Pakistan will continue to harp on Kashmir, as seen ahead of Indian EAM’s visit by comments made by Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Islamabad cannot let go of Kashmir rhetoric, simply because the political rhetoric in the country is tied to it. The country won't be able to do anything much about it, other than making comments that serve the "establishment". Even Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who once found it quite fashionable to mention Kashmir at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), has now moved on to matters he deems more pressing. When even your allies start to ignore the script, it's time to consider one might be performing in an empty house. Also read | SCO roundup: India opposes China's OBOR, Jaishankar schools Pakistan, and more Today, New Delhi has no interest, incentive or stakeholdership in talking to Pakistan. The country has been supportive of anti-India elements, and terror groups like JeM, LeT, and tiredness remains over the conversational quagmire with Islamabad. 70 years is a long time, and for India's next generation, they look upon Pakistan not with the burdened eyes of history but with the indifference of those who have moved on. No stakes, no baggage – just another dot on the map. Coke Studio Pakistan may be popular for many while going to work in Gurgaon, Mumbai and Bengaluru but it is only there till the playlist changes to the next new song. For many Indians today, Pakistan is just another country, a country with which India has a negative past and an uncertain future. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

View from Delhi: No talks with Pakistan yet, the old cycle won't continue

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for expanding China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), saying it would enhance regional trade cooperation and promote the vision of a connected Eurasia. He made this statement at the annual heads of government meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Islamabad.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Pushes for Expansion of China’s BRI

Ahead of the SCO Summit's commencement, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hosted a state dinner, welcoming key leaders and delegates from member nations. The dinner, held in Islamabad, aimed to foster diplomatic dialogue and strengthen ties between countries participating in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Attendees included prominent leaders from India, China, Russia, Iran, and other SCO members. The event set the stage for discussions on regional cooperation, security, and economic development, as Pakistan prepares to play a central role in the summit's proceedings.

Pakistan: Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif Hosts State Dinner Ahead Of SCO Summit Commencement

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Tuesday for the 23rd meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government. Later in the evening, Jaishankar could be seen exchanging pleasantries with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ahead of the dinner with delegates.&nbsp;

The 23rd SCO CHG kicked off Wednesday (OCt 15) in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, with top-notch security measures in place. Further, the Ministry of External Affairs said that the meeting will focus on the trade and economic agenda of the organisation.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Islamabad: Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif welcomes EAM Dr S Jaishankar and other SCO Council Heads of Government, to a dinner hosted by him. 
 
EAM is in Pakistan to participate in the 23rd Meeting of SCO Council of Heads of Government. 
 
(Video Source: PTV) <a href="https://t.co/BHtUhuLm9e">pic.twitter.com/BHtUhuLm9e</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1846203549572632903?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"The 23rd Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) will be held on 16 October 2024 in Islamabad under the chairmanship of Pakistan. The SCO CHG meeting is held annually and focuses on the trade and economic agenda of the organisation," the MEA stated.&nbsp;

Jaishankar will lead the Indian delegation at the 23rd Meeting of the SCO.

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Landed in Islamabad to take part in SCO Council of Heads of Government Meeting. <a href="https://t.co/PQ4IFPZtlp">pic.twitter.com/PQ4IFPZtlp</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1846150619486163253?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"India remains actively engaged in the SCO format, including various mechanisms and initiatives within the SCO framework," the release said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omar-abdullah-to-take-oath-as-jk-cm-security-beefed-up-as-india-alliances-key-leaders-likely-to-attend-767675">Omar Abdullah to take oath as J&amp;K CM; security beefed up as India Alliance's key leaders likely to attend</a>

The EAM had earlier said that he will not be going to Islamabad to discuss "India-Pakistan relations," but his visit is all about the multilateral event SCO Summit 2024. Jaishankar had also emphasised that he is travelling to Pakistan only to be a "good member of the SCO."

With the arrival of foreign top officials, the security agencies are determined to prevent any disruptions and have amped up security in Islamabad. 
 
To ensure the safety and security of the 23rd SCO summit in Islamabad, the Pakistan Army has been deployed to safeguard the event, key government buildings, and the Red Zone area.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/southwest-monsoon-ends-northeast-monsoon-begins-chennai-on-red-alert-imd-warns-767694">India: Southwest Monsoon ends, northeast monsoon begins; Chennai on red alert, IMD warns</a>

Additionally, rangers have been stationed throughout the capital. 
 
As a precautionary measure, numerous businesses have been temporarily shut down to minimise security risks in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Key routes have also been closed.

Notably, the government has deployed over 10,000 police and paramilitary personnel for the security of about 900 delegates set to arrive for the event.

The delegates will stay at different places in the capital located inside the 'Red Zone' or in the vicinity, as 14 locations in the capital have been arranged for their accommodation, Dawn reported.

A motorcade of 124 vehicles has been arranged to ensure transportation for guests. This fleet will be divided into two groups: 84 vehicles will escort the heads of states, while 40 vehicles will cater to other delegates. With all delegations set to arrive, a packed schedule awaits on Wednesday.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Tuesday for the 23rd meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Tuesday for the 23rd meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government. Later in the evening, Jaishankar could be seen exchanging pleasantries with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ahead of the dinner with delegates. The 23rd SCO CHG kicked off Wednesday (OCt 15) in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, with top-notch security measures in place. Further, the Ministry of External Affairs said that the meeting will focus on the trade and economic agenda of the organisation. #WATCH | Islamabad: Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif welcomes EAM Dr S Jaishankar and other SCO Council Heads of Government, to a dinner hosted by him. EAM is in Pakistan to participate in the 23rd Meeting of SCO Council of Heads of Government. (Video Source: PTV) pic.twitter.com/BHtUhuLm9e — ANI (@ANI) October 15, 2024 × "The 23rd Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) will be held on 16 October 2024 in Islamabad under the chairmanship of Pakistan. The SCO CHG meeting is held annually and focuses on the trade and economic agenda of the organisation," the MEA stated. Jaishankar will lead the Indian delegation at the 23rd Meeting of the SCO. Landed in Islamabad to take part in SCO Council of Heads of Government Meeting. pic.twitter.com/PQ4IFPZtlp — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 15, 2024 × "India remains actively engaged in the SCO format, including various mechanisms and initiatives within the SCO framework," the release said. Also Read | Omar Abdullah to take oath as J&K CM; security beefed up as India Alliance's key leaders likely to attend The EAM had earlier said that he will not be going to Islamabad to discuss "India-Pakistan relations," but his visit is all about the multilateral event SCO Summit 2024. Jaishankar had also emphasised that he is travelling to Pakistan only to be a "good member of the SCO." With the arrival of foreign top officials, the security agencies are determined to prevent any disruptions and have amped up security in Islamabad. To ensure the safety and security of the 23rd SCO summit in Islamabad, the Pakistan Army has been deployed to safeguard the event, key government buildings, and the Red Zone area. Also Read | India: Southwest Monsoon ends, northeast monsoon begins; Chennai on red alert, IMD warns Additionally, rangers have been stationed throughout the capital. As a precautionary measure, numerous businesses have been temporarily shut down to minimise security risks in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Key routes have also been closed. Notably, the government has deployed over 10,000 police and paramilitary personnel for the security of about 900 delegates set to arrive for the event. The delegates will stay at different places in the capital located inside the 'Red Zone' or in the vicinity, as 14 locations in the capital have been arranged for their accommodation, Dawn reported. A motorcade of 124 vehicles has been arranged to ensure transportation for guests. This fleet will be divided into two groups: 84 vehicles will escort the heads of states, while 40 vehicles will cater to other delegates. With all delegations set to arrive, a packed schedule awaits on Wednesday. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

SCO Summit: EAM S Jaishankar exchanges greetings with Pakistan PM Sharif

Pakistan is preparing to host the SCO summit, with leaders from India, China, Iran, and Russia set to attend. The high-level meeting will focus on regional cooperation and key geopolitical issues. Islamabad is on heightened security alert, with significant measures in place to ensure the safety of the event, including road closures and restricted access in key areas. The summit underscores the importance of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in fostering collaboration among member states.

Pakistan: Islamabad Under Lockdown As Jaishankar Arrives For SCO Summit

Pakistan Prepares For SCO Summit, Meet To Be Attended By India, China, Iran and Russia

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has arrived in Islamabad, Pakistan, to attend the 23rd meeting of the Council of Heads of Government (CHG) of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The two-day summit has brought together top leaders from member states, with strict security measures in place. Key routes and businesses in both Islamabad and the nearby city of Rawalpindi have been closed due to heightened security concerns surrounding the event.

SCO Summit In Pakistan: EAM S Jaishankar Arrives In Islamabad To Attend Meet

Pakistan’s capital - Islamabad, is under strict security lockdown ahead of a heads-of-government gathering of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) this week. The government has announced a three-day public holiday in Islamabad, with schools and businesses shut and large contingents of police and paramilitary forces deployed.

Pakistan Capital In Security Lockdown Ahead Of Regional SCO Meeting

SCO Summit in Pakistan is on the 15th and 16th of October and the country is in the grip of security pangs. The series of Terror attacks targeting foreign Nationals and unrest created by the political opposition have put the government on the edge.

Pakistan SCO Summit: Pakistan PM Warns Imran Khan's PTI Ahead Of SCO Summit

All eyes are set for the gathering of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The 23rd meeting of the SCO is scheduled for Tuesday (Oct 15) and Wednesday (Oct 16) in Pakistan's capital city of Islamabad.

All eyes are set for the gathering of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The 23rd meeting of the SCO is scheduled for Tuesday (Oct 15) and Wednesday (Oct 16) in Pakistan's capital city of Islamabad. The SCO comprises China, India, Russia, Pakistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Belarus -- with 16 more countries affiliated as observers or "dialogue partners." Also read | Pakistan tightens security ahead of SCO summit, national airline's offices to remain closed The SCO participants will be represented by the prime ministers of China, Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, as well as the first vice president of Iran and foreign minister of India. Islamabad goes into lockdown A report by the news agency Reuters said that Islamabad has gone into a lockdown ahead of the summit. The government has announced a three-day public holiday in Islamabad, with schools and businesses shut and large contingents of police and paramilitary forces deployed. Pakistani army troops will be responsible for the security of the capital's Red Zone, the location of Parliament and a diplomatic enclave and where most of the meetings will take place, according to the interior ministry. Threat alert high in Pakistan The threat alert has been high in the South Asian nation ahead of the SCO summit, especially after the killing of two Chinese engineers and killing of 21 miners. Also watch | World DNA: PTI warns of massive protest on Oct 15, ahead of SCO Summit in Pak × Islamabad has sought to curb all movement of Chinese nationals in the city, citing fears they could be targets for violence from separatist militants. Also, former jailed prime minister Imran Khan called for a protest on Tuesday for his release and against the government, following violent clashes between the loyalists of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and security forces. Significance of the summit Speaking to the news agency AFP, Imtiaz Gul, a security analyst and executive director of the Centre for Research and Security Studies, said that the SCO Summit in Pakistan held great significance for a country that's "not seen as safe." "The government claims to have made elaborate security arrangements and understandably so because it has to make sure that the event passes off peacefully without any untoward incident," Gul said. (With inputs from agencies)

SCO summit in Pakistan: Islamabad goes into lockdown ahead of regional leaders' meeting

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is expected to arrive in Pakistan’s capital on Tuesday (Oct 15), just one day before the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.

This visit is the first by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan in nine years, with the last visit by Sushma Swaraj in December 2015.

Despite no formal bilateral discussions being planned during the SCO event, media reports suggest that Jaishankar will attend the welcome dinner hosted by Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ahead of the main summit scheduled for Wednesday.

The event will see participation from key regional figures, including Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

When asked about Jaishankar’s visit, Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, said, “I would like you to refer to the remarks made by the Indian Minister for External Affairs on 5th of October, in which he maintained that his visit was meant for a multilateral event and not for discussing Pakistan-India relations. These remarks are self-explanatory.”

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This aligns with Jaishankar's previous statement, in which he said that “he was not going there to discuss India-Pakistan relations."

“I do want to say it will be for a multilateral event. I mean, I’m not going there to discuss India-Pakistan relations, I’m going there to be a good member of the SCO. But, you, know, because I’m a courteous and civil person, I will behave myself accordingly,” Jaishankar had stated.

<h2>Pakistan's 'comprehensive'&nbsp;security plan for SCO Summit: Complete lockdown;&nbsp;wedding halls, cafes to remain closed</h2>

The 23rd meeting of the heads of government of the SCO member states is set to be held in Islamabad on the 15th and 16th of October. Security measures have been significantly ramped up in preparation for the summit.

In a statement, Islamabad’s Inspector-General of Police, Nasir Ali Rizvi, mentioned that a “comprehensive” security plan had been devised for this crucial summit in the capital.

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In light of the event, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's government has enforced tighter security throughout the country. Around 10,000 personnel, including soldiers and commandos from the Pakistan Army, have been stationed in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. A three-day public holiday has also been declared in Islamabad to ensure the safety of the delegates.

Reports indicate that local police and other security agencies will report directly to the military during this period. From 12th to 16th October, all wedding halls, cafes, restaurants, and snooker clubs in Islamabad and Rawalpindi have been ordered to remain closed.

<h2>Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf&nbsp;threatened to hold&nbsp;protests during SCO Summit</h2>

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has threatened to hold a protest on 15th October, opposing the restrictions placed on their imprisoned leader Imran Khan, demanding that the government grant him access to his family, legal team, and doctor.

“Protests during nationally significant events do not send a positive message,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is expected to arrive in Pakistan’s capital on Tuesday (Oct 15), just one day before the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is expected to arrive in Pakistan’s capital on Tuesday (Oct 15), just one day before the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. This visit is the first by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan in nine years, with the last visit by Sushma Swaraj in December 2015. Despite no formal bilateral discussions being planned during the SCO event, media reports suggest that Jaishankar will attend the welcome dinner hosted by Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ahead of the main summit scheduled for Wednesday. The event will see participation from key regional figures, including Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin. When asked about Jaishankar’s visit, Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, said, “I would like you to refer to the remarks made by the Indian Minister for External Affairs on 5th of October, in which he maintained that his visit was meant for a multilateral event and not for discussing Pakistan-India relations. These remarks are self-explanatory.” Also read: ‘Trudeau’s hostility to India...': MEA slams Canada’s ‘preposterous’ claims This aligns with Jaishankar's previous statement, in which he said that “he was not going there to discuss India-Pakistan relations." “I do want to say it will be for a multilateral event. I mean, I’m not going there to discuss India-Pakistan relations, I’m going there to be a good member of the SCO. But, you, know, because I’m a courteous and civil person, I will behave myself accordingly,” Jaishankar had stated. Pakistan's 'comprehensive' security plan for SCO Summit: Complete lockdown; wedding halls, cafes to remain closed The 23rd meeting of the heads of government of the SCO member states is set to be held in Islamabad on the 15th and 16th of October. Security measures have been significantly ramped up in preparation for the summit. In a statement, Islamabad’s Inspector-General of Police, Nasir Ali Rizvi, mentioned that a “comprehensive” security plan had been devised for this crucial summit in the capital. Also read: Two IndiGo flights travelling from Mumbai to West Asia receive bomb threats In light of the event, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's government has enforced tighter security throughout the country. Around 10,000 personnel, including soldiers and commandos from the Pakistan Army, have been stationed in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. A three-day public holiday has also been declared in Islamabad to ensure the safety of the delegates. Reports indicate that local police and other security agencies will report directly to the military during this period. From 12th to 16th October, all wedding halls, cafes, restaurants, and snooker clubs in Islamabad and Rawalpindi have been ordered to remain closed. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf threatened to hold protests during SCO Summit Meanwhile, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has threatened to hold a protest on 15th October, opposing the restrictions placed on their imprisoned leader Imran Khan, demanding that the government grant him access to his family, legal team, and doctor. “Protests during nationally significant events do not send a positive message,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. (With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of SCO Summit, Jaishankar’s visit to Pakistan includes possible dinner with PM Shehbaz Sharif: Report

Pakistan's capital, Islamabad is under strict security lockdown as Chinese Premier Li Qiang landed in the city on Monday ahead of a heads-of-government gathering of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation this week.

Pakistan Capital in Lockdown Ahead of Regional SCO Summit

The Pakistan government on Saturday (Oct 12) warned to use force if jailed former prime minister Imran Khan’s party went ahead to hold a protest in Islamabad on the occasion of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.

The Pakistan government on Saturday (Oct 12) warned to use force if jailed former prime minister Imran Khan’s party went ahead to hold a protest in Islamabad on the occasion of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) political committee, comprising of its key members, decided to hold a protest at D-Chowk in the capital on Tuesday if the government failed to meet its demand to give the 72-year-old former cricketer-turned-politician access to his legal team and a physician, spokesman Zulfiqar Bukhari said. The authorities due to security concerns stopped all meetings with Khan, who has been incarcerated in Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail, after the protest by the party over the last weekend. Also read: China, Pakistan push to sanction BLA's suicide wing following Karachi airport attack: Report Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warned that the government would use “full force” to stop the PTI’s planned protest on the occasion of the SCO summit. “The call for protest on October 15 is an attack on the integrity of the country. We will not allow [anyone] to damage the honour and reputation of the country. The state will use all of its power and resources to prevent the invasion of Islamabad,” said Asif while speaking to the media in Sialkot. The politician also called for the courts to intervene and take notice of the matter. “Do the courts not see what the PTI founder is doing with the integrity of the country? The actions of the judiciary today will determine their role in history,” he said. Separately, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal condemned the protest call by terming it “political terrorism” which is aimed at maligning the country. Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, he expressed disappointment at the timing of the protest. “Now there is no doubt that terrorism in Karachi and political terrorism protest calls are similar,” the minister said, adding that both aimed to destabilise the country. Iqbal said the PTI was destroying the economy of the country and urged the party supporters to see the harm caused by their actions. “The PTI is attempting to undermine the government’s economic recovery efforts. It’s crucial to acknowledge the damage caused by these actions and consider the consequences of supporting policies that hinder Pakistan’s growth and development,” he said. The minister also stated that the country cannot afford destructive politics. “Just because the PTI’s leader is jailed, doesn’t justify chaos,” he said. Separately, Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan Amir Muqam also strongly rejected the PTI’s protest call. “It is proof of anti-nationalism. There is no doubt that PTI’s agenda seems to be anti-Pakistan because the party has declared the protest on this important occasion,” he said. However, the PTI was in no mood to back off and Bukhari said the party was not against any foreign visit but “this illegitimate government” was trying to create a false case of normality when “a former prime minister and leader of the largest party is illegally in prison (according to the UN) along with his wife”. “And to top it off, he has been banned to meet his legal team, doctor or family, which is against all human rights conventions and our constitution. Issues at home need to be solved before faking business as usual. Our only demand is let a doctor or sister meet Imran khan. That’s all. It’s completely illegal and unacceptable. And the world should know it,” he said. Also read: 'Systematic desecration': India slams Bangladesh over attacks on Hindu temple The 23rd SCO summit has been scheduled to be held on October 15 and 16 and several leaders, including Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Iranian First Vice President Reza Aref, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and other leaders from member states are expected to attend. The government has deployed more than 10,000 police and paramilitary personnel for the security of about 900 delegates coming to Islamabad. It also deployed army troops under Article 245 of the Constitution, to bolster security measures in Islamabad from October 5 to 17. The federal government has also announced a three-day holiday in the capital starting from October 14 to ensure the safety and protection of delegates attending the summit. The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 in the Rawalpindi district from October 10 to 17. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Pakistan government threatens force as Imran Khan's PTI plans protest during SCO summit

Pakistan's national air carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced that its offices will stay closed from October 14 to October 16.

According to an ARY News report, this closure is in line with security measures Islamabad is putting in place ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit.

During this period, airport staff will still perform their duties. In a circular, the airline said that its employees working in shifts at the airport will continue with their duties during the closure.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:162,&quot;w&quot;:654,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1852}" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-govt-threatens-force-as-imran-khans-pti-plans-protest-during-sco-summit-766941">Pakistan government threatens force as Imran Khan's PTI plans protest during SCO summit</a>

Furthermore, access to Islamabad's Red Zone area has been restricted to the general public to ensure safety at the conference. Section 144 has been imposed in various cities, such as Karachi and Rawalpindi. 
&nbsp; 
Security measures have led to the country's Supreme Court announcing a three-day closure of its principal office in Islamabad, although provincial registries will remain functional.

Meanwhile, stringent security measures have been put in place at the Adiala jail where Pakistan's former PM Imran Khan is locked up.&nbsp;

To ensure the law and order situation in the federal capital, Pakistan Army troops have been deployed from October 5 to October 17.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:396,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2086}">The SCO Meetings</h2>

Pakistan is set to host the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Heads of Government (CHG) meeting on October 15-16, 2024. The SCO Meetings will be held in Pakistan's Rawalpindi and Islamabad.&nbsp;

Many global senior leaders will attend the two-day summit, among them India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and Chinese Premier Li Qiang.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-use-of-death-penalty-among-harshest-globally-data-766521">Pakistan's use of death penalty among harshest globally: Data</a>

Talking to AFP, Imtiaz Gul, a security analyst and executive director of the Center for Research and Security Studies, said that the meeting holds great significance for a country which is "not seen as safe".

"The government claims to have made elaborate security arrangements and understandably so because it has to make sure that the event passes off peacefully without any untoward incident," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's national air carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced that its offices will stay closed from October 14 to October 16. According to an ARY News report, this closure is in line with security measures Islamabad is putting in place ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit.

Pakistan's national air carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced that its offices will stay closed from October 14 to October 16. According to an ARY News report, this closure is in line with security measures Islamabad is putting in place ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit. During this period, airport staff will still perform their duties. In a circular, the airline said that its employees working in shifts at the airport will continue with their duties during the closure. Also read | Pakistan government threatens force as Imran Khan's PTI plans protest during SCO summit Furthermore, access to Islamabad's Red Zone area has been restricted to the general public to ensure safety at the conference. Section 144 has been imposed in various cities, such as Karachi and Rawalpindi. Security measures have led to the country's Supreme Court announcing a three-day closure of its principal office in Islamabad, although provincial registries will remain functional. Meanwhile, stringent security measures have been put in place at the Adiala jail where Pakistan's former PM Imran Khan is locked up. To ensure the law and order situation in the federal capital, Pakistan Army troops have been deployed from October 5 to October 17. The SCO Meetings Pakistan is set to host the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Heads of Government (CHG) meeting on October 15-16, 2024. The SCO Meetings will be held in Pakistan's Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Many global senior leaders will attend the two-day summit, among them India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and Chinese Premier Li Qiang. Also read | Pakistan's use of death penalty among harshest globally: Data Talking to AFP, Imtiaz Gul, a security analyst and executive director of the Center for Research and Security Studies, said that the meeting holds great significance for a country which is "not seen as safe". "The government claims to have made elaborate security arrangements and understandably so because it has to make sure that the event passes off peacefully without any untoward incident," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan tightens security ahead of SCO summit, national airline's offices to remain closed

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