Islamabad: EAM S Jaishankar, Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Shake Hands At Shanghai Cooperation Organisation

External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif exchanged pleasantries on October 15. This took place during a dinner for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) leaders in Islamabad. The two leaders were seen shaking hands and conversing briefly before Jaishankar moved on, guided by Sharif. This visit marks the first time in nine years that an Indian External Affairs Minister has visited Pakistan.

Jaishankar's aircraft touched down at Nur Khan airbase near Islamabad around 3:30 pm local time. Senior Pakistani officials welcomed him upon arrival. This visit is significant as it comes amidst ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan over Kashmir and cross-border terrorism issues. The last Indian Foreign Minister to visit Pakistan was Sushma Swaraj, who attended the 'Heart of Asia' conference on Afghanistan in December 2015.

Significance of Jaishankar's Visit

Jaishankar's presence at the SCO summit underscores India's commitment to the organisation despite strained relations with Pakistan. In a recent speech, he stated that India desires good relations with its neighbour but cannot ignore cross-border terrorism or engage in wishful thinking. Sending a senior minister to Pakistan is viewed as a strategic move by New Delhi.

The SCO Council of Heads of Government Meeting is being hosted by Pakistan from October 15 to 16. The organisation includes China, India, Russia, Pakistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Belarus. Additionally, there are 16 countries affiliated as observers or dialogue partners.

Sharif's Bilateral Meetings
During the summit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held separate discussions with leaders from various SCO member states. These meetings focused on enhancing bilateral ties and strengthening the intergovernmental international organisation. Official reports indicate that Sharif met with Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko, Tajik Prime Minister Qohir Rasulzoda, and Kyrgyz Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov to explore ways to bolster bilateral relations.

This gathering of leaders highlights the importance of cooperation among SCO member states in addressing regional challenges and fostering mutual understanding. As the summit progresses, further discussions are expected to focus on economic collaboration and security issues within the region.

The interactions at this summit reflect ongoing efforts by member states to engage diplomatically despite existing tensions. Such engagements provide opportunities for dialogue and potential resolutions to longstanding issues affecting regional stability.