Unilateral sanctions incompatible with international law: Shanghai Cooperation Organization

By Aamir Latif and Islamuddin Sajid

ISLAMABAD (AA) - The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states on Wednesday observed that unilateral sanctions are incompatible with international law and have "negative" impact on third countries and global economic relations.

In a joint communique adopted at the culmination of the 23rd summit of the SCO's heads of government in Pakistan's capital Islamabad, they reaffirmed the commitment to the peaceful settlement of differences and disputes between countries through dialogue and consultations.

They opposed protectionist actions, unilateral sanctions and trade restrictions that undermine the multilateral trading system and impede global sustainable development.

The declaration called for developing further cooperation in the spheres of politics and security, trade, economy, finance and investment, and cultural and humanitarian ties in order to build a "peaceful, safe, prosperous and ecologically clean planet Earth to achieve harmonious coexistence of man and nature."

The heads of government observed the "tectonic" shifts in the global economy, characterized by rapid advancements and interconnectivity in the areas of information technology, digitalization, artificial intelligence, virtual/digital assets and e-commerce.

They called for respect for the right of peoples to independently and democratically choose their political, social and economic development, emphasizing the principles of mutual respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of the states.

They also expressed concern over the exacerbation of various challenges that have led to reduced investment flows, disrupted supply chains and uncertainty in global financial markets as a result of protectionist measures and other impediments to international trade.

The next meeting of the Council of Heads of Government (Prime Ministers) of the SCO members will be held in Russia in 2025.

- Cease-fire in Gaza

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who presided over the summit, called for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza.

In his closing remarks, Sharif observed that an independent Palestinian state is "must" for peace in the Middle East.

He urged the international community to play a role in bringing an end to Israeli brutalities in the enclave.