Islamabad Lockdown for Shanghai Cooperation Summit

Islamabad is under a strict security lockdown as Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrives for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, the first visit by a Chinese premier in 11 years. The Pakistani government has declared a three-day public holiday, shutting down schools and businesses while deploying around 10,000 soldiers and paramilitary forces to ensure security, particularly in the Red Zone where key meetings will occur. Heightened security measures come amid tensions from planned protests by the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, led by jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, calling for his release. Concerns over safety have intensified following recent attacks on Chinese nationals, prompting authorities to restrict their movement in the city. The summit, scheduled for October 15 and 16, will include leaders from several member states discussing regional security and cooperation. The situation reflects both the significance of the SCO for Pakistan and its ongoing security challenges.