SCO Summit 2024 Islamabad, Pakistan

On October 15 and 16, Pakistan hosted the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting. as the current chair of the SCO Council of Heads of Government, the second-highest SCO forum that addresses economic, trade, social, cultural, and humanitarian issues as well as the organization’s budgetary matters. The prime ministers of China, Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, along with the first vice president of Iran and the Indian minister of external affairs, represented the SCO member states. There was a total lockdown in Rawalpindi and Islamabad to protect the participants from SCO member nations, and 10,000 police and paramilitary forces were sent in to protect the roughly 900 delegates.

H.S. Ahmed Ally’s Role in SCO Summit 2024 Pakistan

Background

In August 2024, H.S. Ahmed Ally was approached by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) of Islamabad to provide comprehensive technical and management support for a high-stakes event at the Jinnah Convention Center. Given the national significance of the event, the CDA required a reliable partner to ensure seamless execution of advanced communication and broadcasting systems while the venue underwent extensive interior renovations for.

Objectives

The primary objectives for H.S. Ahmed Ally were:

  • Implementation of a Delegate Interpretation System (Wired System): To facilitate effective communication among delegates from various linguistic backgrounds, a robust wired interpretation system was essential. This system was to provide real-time translation of discussions, ensuring that all participants could engage meaningfully in conversations and deliberations.
  • Establishment of Reliable Wi-Fi Networking: High-speed internet connectivity was critical for delegates to access online resources, communicate with their home offices, and engage with digital platforms during the event. The objective was to create a seamless, secure Wi-Fi network that could support a large number of simultaneous users without interruptions.
  • Development of Advanced Communication Systems: This involved setting up reliable networking and communication systems that would enable efficient internal communication among staff and delegates. The goal was to ensure that all stakeholders could connect effortlessly, whether through instant messaging, voice calls, or video conferencing.
  • Installation of CCTV Camera Systems: Security was a paramount concern, given the national importance of the event. The objective was to implement a comprehensive CCTV surveillance system to monitor all areas of the venue. This system aimed to enhance safety and security by providing real-time footage to security personnel, thereby preventing potential incidents and ensuring a secure environment for all attendees.
  • Setup of Broadcasting Camera Systems: To ensure broad coverage of the event, a sophisticated broadcasting camera system was needed. This objective focused on capturing high-quality video feeds for live streaming and recording, allowing those unable to attend in person to participate virtually. This system aimed to promote transparency and wider engagement in discussions held at the summit.
  • Deployment of an Efficient Telephone System: Implementing an advanced telephone system, including IP phones, was essential for facilitating clear and reliable communication among participants, organizers, and external contacts. The objective was to ensure that all parties could communicate efficiently throughout the event, minimizing delays and miscommunications.
  • Simultaneous Coordination of Installations with Building Renovations: One of the most significant challenges was to manage all technical installations without disrupting the ongoing interior renovations of the Jinnah Convention Center. The objective was to ensure that all systems were installed, tested, and operational before the event while maintaining a safe and organized workspace amidst the construction activities.
  • Comprehensive Training for On-Site Personnel: Ensuring that all staff members were familiar with the newly installed systems was crucial. The objective was to provide thorough training sessions for the on-site personnel, equipping them with the knowledge needed to troubleshoot issues and operate the equipment effectively during the event.
  • Establishment of Backup Systems: Given the critical nature of the event, having contingency plans was vital. The objective was to set up backup systems for all technical components, ensuring that any potential failures could be addressed promptly without impacting the overall proceedings.
Key Technologies Sourced and Implemented
  • Bosch Multimedia Devices: For clear communication, featuring live video on each device.
  • Bosch Discussion Devices with Language Selectors: Enabling real-time multilingual interpretation.
  • Bosch Interpreter Desks: 12 desks supporting five languages, accommodating multiple interpreters.
  • Bosch Pocket Receivers: Used by around 300 participants to listen in their preferred language.
  • Al-driven Lumens ProAV 4K PTZ Cameras: Providing dynamic, high-quality video coverage and Integration with Dicentis Conference solutions by Bosch.
Challenges

The project faced several significant challenges that tested HS Ahmed Ally’s operational capabilities and logistical expertise:

  1. Equipment Availability: One of the primary challenges was the unavailability of high-level technical equipment within Pakistan. The specific systems required for the event, such as advanced Delegate Interpretation Systems, sophisticated broadcasting camera systems, and specialized CCTV setups, were not readily accessible in the local market. Many of these components needed to be sourced from international vendors known for their reliability and quality, which posed a significant hurdle given the tight timeline.
  2. Time Constraints: With only 40-50 days to execute the project, the urgency to import equipment added pressure to the process. This timeline was nearly impossible for the procurement of such complex systems, as international shipping, customs clearance, and installation all had to align perfectly. The limited timeframe necessitated a rapid response to secure agreements with suppliers and ensure timely delivery.
  3. International Vendor Coordination: Contacting international vendors posed additional challenges. HS Ahmed Ally had to navigate various time zones, language barriers, and differences in business practices. Establishing clear communication with vendors was crucial for negotiating terms, verifying equipment specifications, and ensuring that delivery schedules aligned with the project timeline. Furthermore, many suppliers were initially hesitant to prioritize an urgent order, especially when it involved shipping high-value items.
  4. Logistical Complexities: The logistics of importing such sophisticated equipment involved multiple steps, including arranging for secure transport, managing customs documentation, and coordinating with local authorities to facilitate smooth clearance upon arrival. HS Ahmed Ally faced potential delays due to customs inspections, which could have jeopardized the project’s timeline.
  5. High Standards and Compatibility: The equipment needed to meet high performance and compatibility standards to ensure seamless integration with existing systems at the venue. HS Ahmed Ally had to thoroughly evaluate product specifications and compatibility, which required extensive research and communication with vendors to ensure that the right solutions were chosen.
  6. Finalizing Supply with Bosch: After exploring various options and facing numerous setbacks, HS Ahmed Ally successfully managed to secure a partnership with Bosch, a reputable global supplier known for its quality technical equipment. Negotiating with Bosch was particularly challenging due to their strict quality control standards and inventory limitations. However, after demonstrating the urgency and significance of the project, HS Ahmed Ally was able to convince Bosch to prioritize the order and expedite the supply of necessary equipment.
  7. On-Site Challenges: Upon the arrival of the equipment, additional challenges arose related to on-site installation. Coordinating the installation of multiple systems while the venue was undergoing renovations required precise scheduling and collaboration with construction teams to avoid disruptions. Ensuring that all equipment was installed correctly and tested before the event added another layer of complexity to the project.
Outcome

The event was executed flawlessly, with all technical systems operational and effective, reflecting H.S. Ahmed Ally’s commitment to quality and reliability. The Delegate Interpretation System facilitated smooth communication among international delegates, while the CCTV and broadcasting systems ensured security and visibility for a global audience.

H.S. Ahmed Ally’s ability to source high-level equipment on a tight schedule and coordinate complex installations and on-going engineering alongside venue renovations demonstrated their expertise in managing high-priority projects. The success of the event reinforced H.S. Ahmed Ally’s reputation as a leading provider of technical support solutions in Pakistan, particularly in critical situations where national interests are at stake.

Conclusion

This case study exemplifies H.S. Ahmed Ally’s capability to navigate complex logistical challenges while delivering high-quality technical support. Their successful execution of the CDA event at Jinnah Convention Center not only highlighted their operational excellence but also their dedication to supporting national interests through advanced communication technologies.