Belarus: Ambassador of Pakistan to Belarus Sajjad Haider Khan at SCO Culture Ministers Forum, held at XXXIII International Festival of Arts ‘Slavianski Bazaar’ in Vitebsk emphasised Pakistan’s commitment to SCO’s role in regional economic cooperation, security and cultural exchange.

As current chair of SCO Council of heads of government, Pakistan is set to host next summit in Islamabad in October 2024, reinforcing its dedication to regional collaboration. Since 2021, Pakistan has actively participated in ‘Slavianski Bazaar Festivals,’ including this year’s exhibition ‘Cultural Diversity and Landscapes of Pakistan.’ Ambassador underscored importance of expanding cultural exchanges, art exhibitions, music festivals and literary forums to strengthen ties among SCO member states. He called to embrace cultural diversity and foster open dialogue to build more cohesive, peaceful and prosperous region. Minsiter of Culture of Belarus, Secretary General of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, ministers/deputy minister and Ambassadors of SCO member States attended. It was first ever event by Belarus since its full membership of SCO earlier this month in Astana.

Theme of event, ‘Dialogue of Cultures-Factor of Unity of Peoples of SCO Countries,’ was highlighted as central to fostering unity in an interconnected yet divided world.