Tight Security Arrangements for Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Meeting in Islamabad
With the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting set to take place in Islamabad on October 15 and 16, tight security measures have been implemented across the federal capital to ensure the smooth conduct of the event.
Key Attendees
The meeting will be presided over by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and will see the participation of several high-profile leaders:
- China, Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan will be represented by their prime ministers.
- The Prime Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan will also attend.
- Iran will be represented by its Vice President, while India will send Foreign Minister Subramaniam Jaishankar.
- The Prime Minister of Mongolia and the Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan will also participate.
Security Measures
In light of the meeting, Pakistan Army troops have been deployed throughout Islamabad, while strict traffic restrictions have been imposed:
- The Metro bus service will remain closed from October 14 to October 17.
- Key roads such as Murree Road (from Rawal Dam to Kashmir Chowk) and the route from Malpur to Dhokri Chowk will be closed.
- Heavy traffic has been banned in Islamabad during the summit.
Traffic Plan
Islamabad Police have issued an alternative traffic plan to facilitate movement:
- Murree and Bhara Kahu residents traveling to Rawalpindi can take routes via Coring Road, Bani Gala, Park Road, and Rawal Dam Chowk.
- Travelers from Rawalpindi to Islamabad are advised to use Ninth Avenue.
- The Expressway will be closed from Faisal Avenue to Zero Point and Coral Chowk.
Focus of the Meeting
Discussions will focus on enhancing cooperation in key sectors such as the economy, trade, and CPEC. High-level meetings between leaders, including those with Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang, Pakistani officials, and the military leadership, are also scheduled.
These measures aim to ensure the successful hosting of the summit and the safety of its participants.