External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's ongoing visit to Pakistan marks a significant moment in diplomatic relations between India and its neighbour. Arriving in Islamabad for the two-day Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, Jaishankar's presence is notable as it is the first visit by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan in nearly nine years.
The 23rd meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the SCO has attracted leaders from various member states, underscoring its importance in regional diplomacy.
The meeting commenced under stringent security protocols, reflecting the current political climate in Pakistan. Major routes and businesses in Islamabad and nearby Rawalpindi were temporarily closed as authorities implemented comprehensive security measures to ensure the safety of the delegates and the public.
The visit was marked by a warm reception from Pakistani officials. The Pakistan Prime Minister's Office shared a video on social media welcoming Jaishankar to Islamabad. The informal dinner hosted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif provided an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange greetings and discuss important issues.
Despite the frosty ties between India and Pakistan, primarily due to the ongoing Kashmir dispute and concerns over cross-border terrorism, Jaishankar’s visit symbolises a potential thaw in relations.
To prepare for the summit, Pakistani authorities took extensive precautions in light of recent political unrest and rising militant violence. Troops were deployed across Islamabad, and hundreds of supporters of jailed opposition leader Imran Khan were detained. The government also enforced new laws to limit public protests, leading to the cancellation of a planned demonstration by Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
In a bid to enhance security further, the Pakistani government declared a public holiday in Islamabad for three days, starting Monday. Schools and businesses closed their doors, while police and paramilitary forces patrolled the city in large numbers.
According to Pakistan's interior ministry, army personnel were tasked with securing the Red Zone, where the parliament, the diplomatic enclave, and the primary summit venues are located.
The summit kicked off with the arrival of delegations on Tuesday, followed by a welcome dinner hosted by the Pakistani Prime Minister. The official proceedings scheduled for Wednesday included remarks from Shehbaz Sharif, signing of important documents, and concluding statements from the leaders. There were also plans for media statements and an official luncheon.
Jaishankar's visit coincided with the arrival of Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Islamabad for the SCO meeting and a bilateral visit. This visit by a Chinese premier is significant as it is the first in 11 years.
During his stay, Li is expected to meet with various Pakistani leaders, including Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari, to discuss strengthening bilateral ties. One of the highlights of Li's visit is the inauguration of the CPEC-funded Gwadar International Airport in Balochistan, a strategically important region bordering Afghanistan and Iran.
The summit saw participation from various leaders of SCO member states, including the Prime Ministers of Belarus, Kazakhstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Iran’s First Vice President. This broad representation highlights the SCO's importance as a platform for regional cooperation.
Upon his arrival in Islamabad, Jaishankar was expected to attend a banquet reception hosted by Prime Minister Sharif. However, it is essential to note that both sides have ruled out any formal bilateral discussions between Jaishankar and his Pakistani counterpart, Ishaq Dar, during the summit's proceedings.
In a broader context, Jaishankar's visit is seen as a vital step for India in its diplomatic engagements. Earlier in August, Pakistan extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the SCO summit, indicating a willingness to engage in dialogue.
Jaishankar's comments on the matter reflect India's position, emphasising the importance of addressing cross-border terrorism as a prerequisite for improving relations with Pakistan.
The SCO was established in 2001, originally comprising China, Russia, and several Central Asian countries. India and Pakistan joined as permanent members in 2017, highlighting the organisation’s expanding influence in regional affairs. Pakistan's assumption of the rotating chair for the SCO CHG in 2023-24 at a prior meeting held in Bishkek adds another layer of significance to the current summit.
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