In a significant diplomatic gesture, Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar thanked Pakistan for its warm hospitality during his participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Islamabad. Jaishankar’s visit marked the first by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan in nearly a decade, signaling a potential thaw in long-frosty relations. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, and the Pakistani government for their “hospitality and courtesies” during the event.
Departing from Islamabad. Thank PM @CMShehbaz, DPM & FM @MIshaqDar50 and the Government of Pakistan for the hospitality and courtesies. pic.twitter.com/wftT91yrKj
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 16, 2024
The summit, which brought together regional leaders, concluded after two days of discussions. Following Jaishankar’s departure, Dar reciprocated by thanking his Indian counterpart for his “kind message and participation” in the 23rd SCO meeting, noting that Pakistan was honored to host the event. This exchange has raised hopes for better cooperation between the two neighbors, with both sides showcasing diplomatic goodwill.
A Moment of Diplomacy Amid Tensions
Relations between India and Pakistan have been strained since India revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, a move that escalated tensions. However, Jaishankar’s visit is being seen as a possible “ice breaker.” Information Minister Attaullah Tarar referred to the Indian foreign minister’s arrival as sending “positive images” worldwide. Tarar emphasized that while no bilateral meeting was requested by either side, Jaishankar’s presence in Islamabad itself marked a significant step forward.
During the summit’s official dinner, Jaishankar and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif greeted each other with handshakes, marking a symbolic moment in the backdrop of strained ties. Though the exact details of any discussions between Jaishankar and Dar were not disclosed, their brief exchange over lunch added to the positive momentum created by the event.
SCO Summit Outcomes and Jaishankar’s Message
The SCO summit concluded with the signing of eight outcome documents, reflecting regional cooperation on multiple fronts. Jaishankar, in another post on X, highlighted that India made a “positive and constructive contribution” to the deliberations. He underscored the need for self-accountability, attributing the trust deficit between nations to a lack of openness and sincerity. He emphasized the importance of mutual respect, sovereignty, and the recognition of territorial integrity as fundamental pillars for cooperation.
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Jaishankar’s address at the summit was forward-looking, focusing on how globalization has created opportunities for trade, investment, and communication. He noted that if regional cooperation were strengthened, it could lead to significant development. However, he also warned that challenges like cross-border terrorism, extremism, and separatism must be tackled to facilitate smoother public-level engagement.
Opportunities for Industrial and Environmental Cooperation
Beyond the political discourse, Jaishankar pointed to practical areas of cooperation, including industrial collaboration. He stressed that joint efforts in this domain could enhance regional competitiveness and expand labor markets. Additionally, he highlighted the potential for cooperation in environmental protection and climate change initiatives, areas that have gained increasing importance on the global agenda. Jaishankar’s call for stronger resource mobilization and investments resonated with the broader goal of fostering economic cooperation.
As the world moves towards a multi-polar system, the SCO summit in Islamabad could prove to be a vital platform for addressing long-standing regional issues. With this event, both India and Pakistan have taken steps, albeit cautiously, towards fostering greater diplomatic engagement.
