ISLAMABAD: The federal government has announced three public holidays in Islamabad and Rawalpindi in light of the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. According to an official notice, the holidays will be observed from October 14 to 16.
The notification explains that the holidays have been declared due to the SCO summit, which will take place in Islamabad on October 15 and 16. During this period, all educational institutions, including schools, and government offices in both cities will remain closed.
Representatives from member countries, including Indian Foreign Minister Jay Shankar, along with leaders from China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Iran, are expected to attend the summit.
Earlier, Federal Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi chaired a high-level meeting at the Ministry of Interior to discuss preparations for the event. Attendees included senior officials such as the Federal Secretary Interior, Chief Commissioner Islamabad, IG Police Islamabad, and representatives from the Pakistan Rangers and other security agencies.
During the meeting, a detailed review of the security arrangements was conducted, and the interior minister approved a comprehensive plan to ensure tight security throughout the summit.
Naqvi emphasized the importance of hosting the SCO summit, highlighting that several heads of state would be present, calling it a proud moment for the nation. He also noted that special arrangements would be made for the beautification and cleanliness of Islamabad for the occasion.
Naqvi added that additional personnel from the Pakistan Army, Rangers, FC, and Punjab Police would be deployed to ensure security. He stressed the need for cooperation among all relevant departments to ensure the summit is conducted smoothly and peacefully.
