Pakistan is chairing the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation for 2026-27. Here is what that means for the region.

What is the SCO: It is a political, economic and security grouping. Members include China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Iran and Central Asian states. It covers a large share of the world's population.

What just happened: The Council of National Coordinators met in Islamabad from September 28 to 30. This is the first major meeting under Pakistan's chairmanship. An Indian delegation attended, the first in nearly two years.

What is the theme: Pakistan's slogan is "Turning Vision into Action: Connectivity, Innovation and Shared Prosperity." Its focus areas are trade links, technology, economic cooperation and people-to-people contact.

Why it matters: The chair sets the agenda and hosts the year's meetings. Pakistan will host the SCO summit of heads of state in August 2027.

What to watch: India's participation despite tense ties shows the grouping still works as a neutral platform. The year's test will be whether members agree on real connectivity and trade projects.