Heavy security arrangements put in place for SCO Summit in Islamabad

New Delhi, Oct 14: As Pakistan’s Capital, Islamabad readies itself to host the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit on October 15 and 16, the city has come under a strict security lockdown. More than 10,000 law enforcement personnel have been deployed, and the army has been called in to secure key government buildings and the sensitive Red Zone. Roads have been sealed off, schools and businesses closed, and metro services between Islamabad and Rawalpindi have been suspended to ensure a smooth and secure summit.

This sweeping security operation comes in the wake of recent attacks, including a suicide bombing in Karachi targeting Chinese nationals, which heightened concerns for the safety of visiting dignitaries.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s visit, the first by a Chinese premier in 11 years, who reached Islamabad on Monday evening is expected to be a focal point. He will be officially staying for four days in Pakistan not only attending the SCO meeting but also discussing with Pakistan the security of the Chinese assets and people present in Pakistan.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has assured Beijing of a thorough investigation into the last incident where Chinese nationals were killed and promised heightened security for Chinese projects in Pakistan.

Meanwhile, the unprecedented security measures in place for the SCO summit reflect both the heightened diplomatic significance of the event and the fragile security situation within Pakistan.

The Pakistan government has announced a three-day public holiday in Islamabad, suspending commercial activity, closing educational institutions, and halting transportation services. Rangers and paramilitary forces are on high alert, patrolling sensitive areas, including the Red Zone, where key government offices are located.

Reports indicate that 900 delegates from various SCO member states and observer nations will attend the summit, including high-level representatives from China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Iran. Pakistan has mobilised its military to oversee the security of critical sites, as well as the delegates' accommodations and movements.

Despite these extensive precautions, the summit amid heightened domestic unrest in the country adds another layer of tension.

Imran Khan's PTI party has called for protests on October 15, raising concerns about potential disruptions during the summit. The Pakistan ruling government has appealed to the PTI to call off its demonstrations, fearing that any unrest could cast a shadow over Pakistan’s hosting of this high-profile diplomatic event.

The SCO offers an opportunity for regional cooperation on issues like security, trade, and infrastructure, the strained relations between India and Pakistan loom large over the event.