Water Must Not Be Used for Political Purposes or as a Weapon, PM Shehbaz Sharif
Water is the lifeline of our region and a guarantee for the future of coming generations, says PM at SCO summit
Bishkek: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that water is the lifeline of the region and a guarantee for the future of coming generations, stressing that using water for political purposes or as a tool of pressure is unacceptable.
Addressing the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, the prime minister said the SCO is an important platform for promoting global peace and stability. He described the completion of 25 years of the organisation as an important milestone.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed the need for effective implementation of the SCO Development Strategy 2035, saying that the organisation’s development agenda should be pursued with greater cooperation among member states.
He also described the establishment of an SCO Development Bank as an important step that could strengthen economic and development cooperation among member countries.
The prime minister said Pakistan would focus on key areas including energy and information technology (IT) during its chairmanship of the SCO. He emphasised the importance of cooperation in these sectors to promote economic growth, connectivity and sustainable development across the region.
Speaking about water resources, Shehbaz Sharif stressed that water is not only essential for human life but also closely linked to the future and prosperity of the region.
He maintained that water should not be used for political objectives or as a means of exerting pressure on other countries. According to the prime minister, regional cooperation is necessary to address water-related challenges and ensure the sustainable use of this vital resource.
His remarks came as SCO member states continue discussions on regional security, economic cooperation, connectivity, energy and development.
The prime minister said Pakistan would continue playing a constructive role within the SCO and work with member countries to strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
