Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar visited Pakistan for the first time in nearly a decade to attend the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Leaders Summit held in Islamabad from October 15-16, 2024.
Mr. Jaishankar signed eight outcome documents at the meeting, mostly related to sustainability and trade.
SCO summit in Pakistan
The SCO summit, focusing on economic, trade, cultural connectivity, and climate change, provided a platform for Mr. Jaishankar to engage with regional leaders.
Mr. Jaishankar’s interactions during the summit were cordial, with notable moments including an informal conversation with PM Sharif during a lunch gathering. His presence at the SCO meeting, held under Pakistan’s chairmanship, appeared to be a testament to India’s commitment to SCO’s charter, emphasizing economic cooperation and peace in the region.
Despite the historical tensions, Minister Jaishankar’s visit was marked by a blend of formality and cautious optimism. During the summit, he participated in a document signing ceremony, delivered India’s national statement, and raised critical issues like terrorism, reflecting India’s stance on international relations.
The summit adopted a Joint Communiqué, which stressed mutual respect for sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, principles that resonate with the ongoing dialogues between India and Pakistan or India and China.
Discussions also touched upon implementing the SCO Economic Development Strategy up to 2030, signaling a broader regional approach towards economic collaboration.
Pakistan brings up Kashmir
However, the visit wasn’t without its undercurrents of tension. Pakistan’s foreign ministry expressed hopes for India to take steps towards peace, referencing the altered situation in Kashmir since 2019 as a point of contention. This backdrop provided a complex setting for Mr. Jaishankar’s diplomatic maneuvers, where he navigated through discussions while maintaining India’s stance on various issues, including security concerns.
Jaishankar’s visit concluded with him expressing gratitude for the hospitality extended by Pakistan, indicating a diplomatic nod towards maintaining channels of communication despite bilateral issues.