ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited Jinnah Convention Centre on Saturday to review arrangements for the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government scheduled for Oct 15-16.

The prime minister was briefed by Capital Development Authority (CDA) Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa and officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the PM Office media wing said in a press release.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar and other relevant authorities also accompanied the prime minister.

PM Sharif expressed his satisfaction over the preparations made for the SCO meeting.

The Convention Centre wears a new look as its main hall, committee rooms and corridors have been renovated and new toilet facilities installed under the rehabilitation project. Similarly, flooring works, paint, glasswork, furniture and carpets have been replaced.

Meanwhile rebutting rumours that commercial activities will remain suspended during the SCO Summit, Islamabad district administration clarified that most of the commercial centres would remain open on the occasion.

Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon has said just a few commercial centres, located along the route of the VIPs, will be closed and they have been informed in advance.

“Other business centres will remain open. Moreover traffic will also remain limited on SCO routes. Steps have been taken to ensure security of the dignitaries who will attend the summit,” he added.

According to APP, capital police on Saturday conducted full dress rehearsals to finalise arrangements for the upcoming SCO Summit.

According to Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Mohammad Sarfraz Virk, Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) have issued a comprehensive plan aimed at ensuring smooth traffic flow during this important international event.

Mr Virk said specific routes would be designated according to the traffic plan, and citizens have been encouraged to cooperate with police directives to facilitate smooth conduct of the summit.

Over 1,100 traffic officers will be deployed across the city to monitor traffic and maintain public safety.

Residents have been urged to stay updated on traffic conditions by tuning into Islamabad Police Radio FM 92.4 or contacting Pukaar 15, Mr Virk said.

“Your support is crucial for ensuring a successful SCO Summit,” the CTO said.

Published in Dawn, October 13th, 2024