Pakistan’s upcoming hosting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, beginning on Tuesday, is shrouded in a cloud of uncertainty. While the country claims to be committed to eradicating terrorism, its deep state is known to have ties with various terrorist groups, a fact that has intensified scrutiny as the summit approaches. The recent surge in attacks by armed groups targeting Chinese nationals and other foreigners underscores the precarious security situation in Pakistan. These attacks have raised concerns about the government’s capability to protect key sites and international visitors, leaving many questioning its ability to maintain order during the high-profile event.
The situation is further complicated by Pakistan’s ongoing political turmoil. The government and former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s party are locked in a bitter power struggle, fueled by political unrest and economic anxieties. Protests by Khan’s supporters have crippled the nation’s capital, Islamabad, impacting businesses, transportation, and the livelihoods of ordinary citizens. This political instability, coupled with the escalating security threats, has created a volatile environment for Pakistan as it prepares to host the SCO summit.
Pakistan’s security forces are facing a formidable challenge in containing the growing influence of armed groups. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), which seeks independence for Balochistan province, has become increasingly active, conducting audacious attacks on Chinese nationals and targeting key infrastructure. Meanwhile, the Pakistani Taliban continues to carry out violent acts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, bordering Afghanistan. The government’s efforts to combat these groups, while often touted, seem to be failing to stem the tide of violence.
The SCO summit, a platform for discussing security and regional cooperation in Central Asia, is being held at a time when Pakistan’s own security is under severe strain. The presence of leaders from China, Pakistan’s longtime ally, and India, its archrival, adds another layer of complexity to the event.
Despite the challenges, Pakistan is determined to make the summit a success. The government views it as an opportunity to demonstrate its international standing, particularly in the eyes of China, a key economic partner. The presence of high-level delegations from various nations, including India, is seen as a positive step towards improving Pakistan’s image and easing its perceived isolation on the world stage.
However, the mounting security concerns and ongoing political crisis threaten to overshadow the summit’s objectives. Pakistan will need to navigate these challenges carefully to ensure the event is conducted peacefully and effectively. The success of the SCO summit will ultimately depend on Pakistan’s ability to overcome its internal turmoil and address the root causes of the security threats it faces.
