Since gaining independence in 1947, Pakistan has hosted numerous international and regional conferences that have played a significant role in shaping its diplomatic relationships, advancing regional cooperation, and showcasing its strategic importance on the global stage. These conferences have facilitated political, economic, and cultural exchanges, allowing Pakistan to position itself as a crucial player in South Asia and beyond.
One of the earliest and most significant events in Pakistan’s diplomatic history was the Bandung Conference which took place April on 18–24, 1955, held in Indonesia, where Pakistan actively participated as part of the newly formed Non-Aligned Movement. This event established Pakistan as a key voice among the newly independent nations of Asia and Africa, advocating for economic cooperation and peaceful coexistence. Pakistan’s strategic location in South Asia and its role as a bridge between the Muslim world and the West became more pronounced during the Cold War era.
The 1970s saw a period of considerable activity for Pakistan on the international stage. In 22–24 February 1974, the second Islamic Summit Conference was held in Lahore, attracting leaders from across the Muslim world.
The summit was especially significant as it was held in the aftermath of Pakistan’s dismemberment in 1971, and the successful hosting of such a prestigious event was seen as a symbol of Pakistan’s resilience and its continued importance in regional politics. This gathering further cemented Pakistan’s leadership within the Islamic community, which was seeking to build stronger economic and political alliances during a period of global division.The Lahore Islamic Summit led to further institutionalizing the OIC, with Pakistan playing a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s agenda, particularly in terms of economic cooperation and support for the Palestinian cause.
In addition to Islamic conferences, Pakistan also hosted numerous South Asian regional summits. The formation of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) in 1985 was a landmark event in South Asia’s diplomatic history. Pakistan was one of the founding members of SAARC, and it hosted several SAARC summits, including the fourth summit was held in Islamabad, Pakistan on 29–31 December 1988. This summit marked an important milestone in promoting regional cooperation in areas such as trade, education, and environmental sustainability. Although SAARC has often been hindered by political tensions, particularly between Pakistan and India, the organization still holds immense potential for regional integration.
One of the major international events held in recent years was the 48th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of the OIC, hosted by Pakistan in March 22-23, 2022under the theme (Building Partnerships for Unity, Justice, and Development) in Islamabad. This conference was of immense importance, especially given Pakistan’s ongoing advocacy for the rights of Muslims worldwide, including in Palestine and Kashmir. The OIC meeting allowed Pakistan to reiterate its stance on these critical issues, while also discussing the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan following the withdrawal of U.S. forces.
The significance of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) for Pakistan cannot be understated. The SCO conference, will hold in Islamabad from October 15-16, 2024, brought together member states to discuss key regional security, economic, and political issues. Pakistan, as the host country, will emphasize the importance of cooperation in combating terrorism, enhancing trade routes, and addressing climate change challenges.
High-level delegations from all member states will participate, focusing on fostering connectivity through initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and enhancing multilateral ties for sustainable regional development. The conference will also provide an opportunity for bilateral discussions aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic relations within the SCO framework.
The history of these conferences highlights the crucial role that Pakistan has played in international and regional diplomacy since its inception. These events have allowed Pakistan to project its influence on matters related to security, economic cooperation, and religious solidarity, particularly within the Muslim world. The SCO conferences, in particular, have had a significant impact on Pakistan’s foreign policy, enabling the country to enhance its security cooperation with China and Russia and strengthen its position in regional geopolitics.
Apart from the political and economic significance, these conferences have also contributed to Pakistan’s soft power by promoting cultural exchanges and fostering people-to-people contact. Conferences like the SAARC summits have encouraged regional cooperation on education, culture, and health, leading to greater understanding among South Asian nations despite underlying political tensions.
While the outcomes of these conferences have varied, with some leading to concrete diplomatic or economic initiatives and others serving more as symbolic gestures, the cumulative impact on Pakistan’s international standing has been profound. Pakistan has often used these platforms to advocate for peace, regional cooperation, and economic development, all while strengthening its alliances with key global powers. Despite the challenges of its geopolitical environment, Pakistan has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, using these forums to navigate its complex foreign relations and enhance its global footprint.
In conclusion, the history of international and regional conferences in Pakistan reflects the country’s strategic importance on the global stage. From Islamic solidarity conferences to regional summits under SAARC and the SCO, these events have allowed Pakistan to play a vital role in regional stability, economic development, and global diplomacy.
The impact of these conferences continues to shape Pakistan’s foreign policy, particularly its relationships with its neighbors and key international powers.
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Islamabad.
