Pakistan has approved Rs6.6 billion to purchase 30 bullet-proof vehicles for the upcoming SCO Summit 2027. The vehicles will transport heads of state during the summit.
The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) approved the funding during a meeting at the Finance Division. Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb chaired the meeting.
ECC Cuts Proposed Vehicle Budget
The Cabinet Division initially requested Rs12.6 billion for the vehicle purchase. However, the ECC approved only Rs6.6 billion after reviewing the proposal.
The committee also asked the Cabinet Division to return with any additional requirements. Moreover, it directed officials to conduct a detailed needs assessment before seeking further funds.
Pakistan to Host SCO Summit in 2027
Pakistan will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in September 2027. The event will bring heads of state and senior officials to the country.
Therefore, the government has started preparations for security, transport, and other logistical requirements well ahead of the summit.
ECC Reviews Other Economic Proposals
During the meeting, the ECC also reviewed several proposals from different ministries.
The committee deferred a proposal on tobacco crop prices and cess rates for fiscal year 2026-27. It asked the Ministry of National Food Security and Research to provide stronger justification and analysis.
Meanwhile, the ECC approved safeguards related to the export of donkey meat and hides from Gwadar Free Zone.
Funding Approved for Education and Fertiliser
The ECC also approved continued gas supplies to FatimaFert and Agritech until September 30, 2026, under the existing arrangement.
In addition, the committee approved Rs5 billion as seed money for the Daanish Schools Authority Fund. The funding will operate under an endowment framework.
The ECC also reviewed progress on the Pakistan Skills Impact Bond. It set September 30, 2026, as the deadline for the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training to submit substantive progress.
Preparations Underway for SCO Summit
The approval represents an early step in Pakistan’s preparations for hosting the 2027 SCO Summit. Security and transportation will remain important priorities for the government.
As preparations continue, authorities are expected to review additional logistical and security requirements for the international gathering.
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