Karachi: Amidst various challenges faced by countries in region and across globe, member states of SCO are working together to promote 'Shanghai Spirit.'

This Spirit aims to address urgent issues and foster regional security, economic prosperity and cultural exchange. It is not only valuable for SCO as an international organisation but also has potential to serve as model for relations between countries worldwide. By encouraging harmony and cooperation, it inspires collective progress and prosperity for everyone involved.

Speakers during Webinar on 'SCO Summit 2023: Implications, Challenges and Future Prospects.' organised by Pakistan-SCO Friendship Forum and Center of SCO Studies, Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS) provided valuable insights about recent SCO 2023 Summit and its implications for future.  They emphasised vital role of people-to-people collaboration and joint efforts in finding effective solutions to complex global challenges such as climate change, extremism, technological advancements and economic stability. They expressed shared belief that through collective action, SCO member states can create a more interconnected and sustainable future. Dr. Farhat Asif President of IPDS highlighted importance of webinar and centre's vision for promoting research, cooperation and people-to-people ties in SCO.

Speakers analysed challenges and prospects faced during SCO summit and highlighted importance of promoting 'Shanghai Spirit' by strengthening connections among people.  During discussions, Dr. Sakti Prasad Srichandan, Assistant Professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University highlighted India's achievements as chair of recent SCO Summit 2023. He proposed building collaboration through joint research.  Kabuljon Sabirov Director of SCO Centre for Public Diplomacy in Uzbekistan advocated essential initiatives like unified corridor map, climate change coordination, tourism development and collaborative measures to counter regional challenges.

Dr. Lidiya Parkhomchik expert from Institute of World Economics and Politics in Kazakhstan highlighted positive outcomes of SCO 2023 summit and expressed enthusiasm about Kazakhstan's hosting of SCO 2024. She described SCO as central force in international diplomacy. 

Julia Melonikov Programme Manager at Russian International Affairs Council emphasied that SCO region serves as forum for resolving differences that may cause region to prosper. She highlighted organisation's role in promoting peace, development and cooperation.  Mirsaid Rahmonov senior analyst at Institute of Asian and European Studies in Tajikistan shared his perspective on achieving lasting peace. He emphasised elements like economic activation, connectivity and eliminating threats as crucial components of peaceful regional approach. Webinar witnessed number of participants including academics, journalists, students and faculty members from different regions of Pakistan and globe.