Pakistan showcased effective cultural diplomacy and regional commitment at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) ministerial meeting in Qingdao, China, underscoring a strong contrast with India’s growing diplomatic isolation. Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister for Culture and National Heritage, Huzaifa Rehman, represented Pakistan, highlighting themes of regional cooperation, shared cultural heritage, and tourism development.
In his address to the SCO gathering, Minister Huzaifa Rehman stressed Pakistan’s firm dedication to enhancing collaboration within the organization, emphasizing mutual respect, peace-building, and inclusive regional growth. He described China as not merely a neighbor, but as a brother nation, signaling the deep-rooted bond between the two allies. “Pakistan is fully committed to enhancing its cooperation with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization at every level,” Rehman stated clearly, expressing Pakistan’s aspiration towards making the SCO an effective and forward-looking regional platform.
Highlighting the importance of cultural diplomacy, Mr. Rehman called for collective efforts in preserving shared cultural heritage and fostering tourism as key areas of regional cooperation. His thoughtful approach, blending historical insights and modern diplomatic strategy, earned appreciation from participating delegates, reinforcing Pakistan’s image as an active and important stakeholder in regional matters.
Minister Rehman’s visit and engagement in China represents a progressive evolution in Pakistan’s foreign policy, reflecting a strategic pivot toward cultural and tourism diplomacy instead of traditional hard-power politics. This shift underscores Pakistan’s drive towards more inclusive, people-focused global interactions aimed at long-term stability and collaboration.
In his concluding remarks, Mr. Rehman reaffirmed the deep emotional bond between Pakistan and China, acknowledging China’s consistent support for Pakistan in international arenas. “Pakistan and China are more than just neighbors—we are brothers at heart,” said Minister Rehman. He further expressed Pakistan’s vision of harnessing culture and tourism as catalysts for sustainable peace, regional unity, and mutual prosperity.
Through Minister Huzaifa Rehman’s active and culturally astute diplomatic engagement at the SCO ministerial meeting, Pakistan continues to present the world with a positive, collaborative narrative based upon shared human values, mutual respect, and regional integration.
