Urdu Report Desk
The government has defended its decision to purchase 45 bulletproof vehicles for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of State Summit, saying the matter should not be politicized.
In a statement issued by Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, the Cabinet Division said the vehicles are being purchased for the SCO summit scheduled to be held in Islamabad in August-September 2027.
International Summit in Islamabad
Pakistan is currently chairing the SCO Council of Heads of State. According to the government, the upcoming summit will be among the country’s most significant international events, with heads of state, governments and international organizations expected to attend.
The Cabinet Division said transport arrangements meeting international security standards are necessary for the protection of visiting dignitaries. It added that additional security measures are particularly important given Pakistan’s existing security situation and threats from external elements.
Existing Vehicles Do Not Meet Required Standards
According to the government, the latest bulletproof vehicles currently available with the Cabinet Division are 2016 models and do not meet the standards required for the SCO summit.
The statement said the proposed purchase of 45 bulletproof vehicles was discussed at several forums before the final number was decided. The government said 45 vehicles are the minimum required for the event.
Around 300 Other Vehicles to Be Rented
The Cabinet Division said around 300 other vehicles required for the summit will not be purchased and will instead be rented.
The government urged the public to view the SCO summit as an opportunity to enhance Pakistan’s international profile and said the event should not be trivialized or turned into a political controversy.
