ISLAMABAD: Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on Wednesday emphasised that the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit offers a valuable opportunity to showcase Pakistan’s soft and positive image to the world.

He along with Chairman of the Pakistan Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashood Ahmed Khan visited CDA to review arrangements being made by city managers for SCO meeting.

The two-day SCO conference is slated to be held here in Islamabad on October 15 and 16.

During the meeting, Mr Tarar highlighted the extraordinary efforts needed to meet the challenges of organising such a large-scale event after a significant gap.

He also stressed the importance of adding festivity, color, and vibrancy to the reception for international delegations.

Tarar reviews preparation for meeting along with youth programme aide

Meanwhile, Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan stressed the need for enhancing the city’s visual appeal during the event.

CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Mohammad Ali Randhawa along with key officials, including the Inspector General of Islamabad, senior officers from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, CDA officials, DC Islamabad, MCI, DMA, representatives from the Baku team (which is doing land scapping work) and Serena Management attended the meeting.

A press release said that detailed briefing was given on various aspects of the SCO summit’s preparations, including Islamabad’s beautification plan, the revamping of the Jinnah Convention Center (JCC), repair and maintenance of VIP routes , and security and lodging arrangements for international delegations and dignitaries.

CDA Chairman Randhawa highlighted that preparations for the SCO Summit were in full swing. The press release said that he outlined a comprehensive beautification plan, including landscaping, and horticulture efforts along the VIP routes.Various design elements including sculptures, and signage are being placed at key areas. The major interchanges, underpasses, bridges, and other structures are being renovated and painted to enhance their aesthetics.

“The beautification efforts are being carried out in coordination with the Baku team. The main routes are being decorated with flags, digital streamers, and SMDs enhancing the city’s beauty. The main roads are also being repaired, with patchwork, kerb stone replacements, signage and lane marking to ensure smooth and safe travel,” read the press release.

It said that Member Engineering provided an update on the revamping of the Jinnah Convention Center, which is near to its completion. The final touches are being done to ensure the venue is ready to host the summit successfully and CDA has started handing over to ministry of foreign affairs.

The press release said that Serena Management officials briefed the meeting on lodging and hospitality arrangements for the principal delegations. They confirmed that main hall and rooms have been refurbished to the highest standards, and all accommodations are nearly complete.

Inspector General of Islamabad Police Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi shared details about the special security arrangements to ensure the safety of international delegation.

At the end, Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar emphasised the importance of teamwork among all stakeholders to ensure a successful and well-arranged summit that enhances Pakistan’s global image.

Published in Dawn, October 3rd, 2024