The recent meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) holds significant importance for the region. At the time, the eyes of major world powers, including the United States, were on this meeting, as Washington believed it was losing influence in the region—a process already set in motion by China. This year, the SCO meeting focused on an issue that all countries are facing amid crisis: governance. In Pakistan’s case, beyond economic challenges and political instability, poor governance remains a serious problem. In fact, many of the country’s issues are directly linked to weak governance.
A key aspect of this year’s SCO meeting was the recognition that the organisation’s scope is not limited to security and economics; good governance is also considered a fundamental element for the shared development and stability of member countries. Good governance forms the foundation upon which nations in the region can build sustainable development, mutual trust, and public prosperity.
China’s President Xi Jinping, the leader of an emerging global power, is determined to bring developed, developing, and less-developed countries together, not only to strengthen his country’s leadership position but also to help others achieve economic self-reliance. This approach reflects a positive and far-sighted vision. Recognising the fragility of the current moment, China seeks to unite nations while emphasising the need for stronger governance systems.
If Pakistan implements transparency, institutional reforms, and the rule of law, it will not only gain the trust of its citizens but also play a more prominent role within the SCO
Among the five key points raised at the meeting on governance, one notable emphasis was: “We must uphold sovereignty and equal rights in the world.” Another was the promotion of trade through multilateralism, which is a constructive idea.
The most important aspects of governance are transparency and institutional strength. When policymaking and decision-making are conducted openly and fairly, public trust increases, and a country’s international reputation improves. Likewise, reducing corruption and upholding the rule of law fosters economic growth and attracts foreign investment. Another vital element of governance is public welfare, including education, health, and the provision of basic services. These directly improve people’s quality of life and strengthen social stability.
However, in the past, Pakistan's elites have been less inclined to prioritise better governance, as the majority of the leadership has benefited from poor governance. If Pakistan implements transparency, institutional reforms, and the rule of law, it will not only gain the trust of its citizens but also play a more prominent role within the SCO. The likely outcomes of such measures could include:
- An improved regional reputation for Pakistan.
- Increased interest from Chinese and Central Asian investors in Pakistan as a secure and attractive market.
- A reduction in internal problems such as corruption, unemployment, and inequality, which fuel extremism.
- The emergence of Pakistan as a leading player in the region, strengthening its diplomatic and political influence.
Ultimately, good governance guarantees both public welfare and national development. It can also position Pakistan as a central pillar of stability and cooperation in the region. By adopting this approach through the SCO platform, Pakistan could unlock new opportunities, strengthen trust, and achieve meaningful progress.