FPCCI to chair SCO business council in 2027 after Bishkek board meeting

Pakistan will assume the chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Business Council in 2027, following a decision announced at the council's board meeting in Bishkek, with business leaders describing the development as a significant opportunity to expand regional economic cooperation.

Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) President Atif Ikram Sheikh, who attended the meeting in the Kyrgyz Republic, said the formal confirmation of Pakistan's upcoming chairmanship was the most significant outcome of the gathering and reflected the confidence of SCO member states in the country's constructive role within the organisation.

Sheikh, who also serves as deputy chairman of the SCO Business Council, said Pakistan intends to use the role to promote regional trade facilitation, investment, business to business engagement and broader economic cooperation among member states.

Leading an FPCCI delegation comprising prominent businessmen and industrialists, he participated in discussions on strategies to deepen economic integration, strengthen commercial partnerships and support sustainable development across the SCO region.

During the meeting, Sheikh highlighted Pakistan's strategic geographical location, expanding investment opportunities and commitment to strengthening economic ties with fellow SCO members. He also stressed the role of the private sector in unlocking the region's economic potential through greater cross border trade, joint ventures and cooperation in sectors including industry, agriculture, energy, information technology, logistics and infrastructure.

FPCCI Vice President Tariq Khan Jadoon welcomed Pakistan's selection to lead the SCO Business Council in 2027, saying the federation would work closely with member states to promote trade, investment and new business opportunities across the region while advancing initiatives that support inclusive growth, innovation and regional prosperity.

On the sidelines of the board meeting, the Pakistani delegation attended the SCO Business and Investment Forum, participated in business to business meetings and held bilateral discussions with representatives from member countries to explore opportunities for increased trade, investment, technology transfer and industrial cooperation.

The FPCCI delegation also acknowledged the support extended by Pakistan's Ambassador to the Kyrgyz Republic, Altamash Wazir Khan, during the visit.