Staff Reporter
Islamabad, : Federal Minister for Information, Attaullah Tarar, and Chairman of Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, visited the Capital Development Authority (CDA) headquarters to review preparations for the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit. They were received and briefed by Chairman CDA, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, along with key officials, including the Inspector General of Islamabad, senior officers from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, CDA’s Environment and Engineering Wings, DC Islamabad, MCI, DMA, representatives from the Baku team, and Serena Management.
A 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.
During the meeting, Federal Minister for Information, Attaullah Tarar, emphasized that the SCO summit offers a valuable opportunity to showcase Pakistan’s soft and positive image to the world. He highlighted the extraordinary efforts needed to meet the challenges of organizing 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. Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan stressed the need to enhance the city’s visual appeal during the event.
CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa highlighted that preparations for the SCO Summit are in full swing. He outlined a comprehensive beautification plan, including landscaping, and horticulture efforts along the VIP and alternative routes. The 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 beautifcation 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.
The 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 MOFA.
Serena Management officials briefed the delegation 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 shared details about the special security arrangements to ensure the safety of international delegation.
At the end, Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar emphasized the importance of teamwork among all stakeholders to ensure a successful and well-arranged summit that enhances Pakistan’s global image.
