A video clip from the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin has gone viral, leading to a wave of online trolling aimed at Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The footage shows Sharif appearing to hurriedly rush to shake hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin, prompting social media users to mock his “desperate” attempt for attention.
The Viral Moment
The incident took place after a group photo session at the summit. As President Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping walked side-by-side, Sharif can be seen coming up from behind and extending his hand to Putin. Observers noted that President Xi, who was walking with Putin, appeared to turn away as Sharif approached. The video has been widely shared online, with many users criticizing the Pakistani leader’s perceived lack of composure.
Social media users have been quick to troll the moment:
- One user on X wrote, “While other leaders showed composure, Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif came running to Putin to shake his hand. Pathetic attention-seeking behaviour.”
- Another comment read, “Beggar tried to approach but Putin and Xi ignored him. Look at this ‘Beggar Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif’ trying to approach Xi and Russian President Putin.”
- A third user described the moment as “Such an Embarrassment For the PM of a country always looking for money.”
PM Modi’s Address at the SCO Summit
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who also attended the summit, delivered a strong message on terrorism. Speaking at the 25th SCO Heads of State Council Summit, Modi stated that terrorism remains a challenge for all of humanity and that “double standards” on the issue will not be acceptable. This address was delivered with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in attendance.
The SCO summit, which brings together leaders from 10 member states, including India, Russia, and China, focuses on security and cooperation across Central Asia and the wider region.