Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced the closure of its offices in Islamabad for three days, from October 14 to 16, 2024, in light of the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit. The decision was communicated through an official circular issued by the national carrier.
The PIA circular clarified that the closure is necessary due to the high-profile event, which will bring several heads of state to Islamabad, including the Indian foreign minister. However, PIA staff assigned to airport shifts will continue their duties as scheduled to ensure uninterrupted operations.
The SCO summit is set to take place on October 15 and 16, 2024, with significant international participation. As a precautionary measure, authorities have also implemented Section 144 in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, effective from October 12 to 17, 2024, prohibiting public gatherings, rallies, or protests during this period.
In addition to the closure of PIA offices, educational institutions, restaurants, hostels, and cafés in the twin cities have been ordered to shut down temporarily, ensuring security for the summit.