23rd SCO Summit: S. Jaishankar Arrives in Islamabad — First Indian EAM to Visit Pakistan in 9 Years; Attends Informal Dinner Hosted By P.M Shehbaz Sharif

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has arrived in Islamabad for the 23rd SCO Summit, where he will attend a reception hosted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Notably, no bilateral talks are scheduled with Pakistan's foreign minister, underscoring persistent tensions over Kashmir and terrorism. The summit, focused on enhancing cooperation in trade and security, will unfold over two days, with Pakistan chairing the SCO Council of Heads of Government for 2023-24. Stay tuned for more updates.

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar arrived in Islamabad on October 15 for the 23rd meeting of the Council of Heads of Government (CHG) of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conclave, marking the first high-profile visit by an Indian minister to Pakistan in the last nine years.The last Indian Foreign Minister to visit Pakistan was Sushma Swaraj, who made the trip to Islamabad in December 2015 for an important conference on Afghanistan.

He was received by senior Pakistani officials at Nur Khan airbase, as reported by PTI. Jaishankar’s visit occurs amidst ongoing tensions between the two nations, primarily centered around the Kashmir conflict and issues related to cross-border terrorism.

Annual SCO CHG Meeting Highlights Trade and Economic Agenda, Key Dignitaries set to attend

Pakistan took over the rotating chair of the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) for 2023-24 at the last meeting in Bishkek in October 2023.Pakistan is hosting the two-day SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) summit on October 15 and 16. The summit will gather leaders from member states and is taking place with increased security due to recent militant activities in the region.

The main event of the SCO meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 16. Leaders will discuss ways to improve security cooperation and strengthen economic ties among member countries.The annual SCO CHG meeting focuses on the organization’s trade and economic agenda.Founded in 2001 by China and Russia, the SCO aims to counter Western influence and includes Iran, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan as its members.

Among the prominent attendees at the SCO summit are China’s Premier Li Qiang, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref, and the prime ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Mongolia. The discussions will center not only on addressing regional security issues but also on cultivating economic partnerships that can enhance cooperation among member states in the face of ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Hosts Dinner for SCO Delegates Ahead of Summit

In Islamabad on Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during an informal dinner hosted by the latter. The two leaders exchanged greetings and shared a handshake, marking a significant moment amid ongoing diplomatic discussions. Jaishankar’s visit coincides with the 23rd meeting of the Council of Heads of Government (CHG) of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

India Reaffirms Commitment to SCO Amidst Absence of Bilateral Talks

India has ruled out the possibility of bilateral talks; however, the Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that its participation in the event underscores its commitment to the SCO and its ability to provide valuable insights. “India remains actively engaged in the SCO framework, including various mechanisms and initiatives,” the MEA stated.

Despite bilateral talks,Jaishankar’s visit to Pakistan is still viewed as significant, marking a noteworthy decision for India. During a recent event, he remarked, “Good relations with Pakistan are sought by India, just as with any neighbor. However, cross-border terrorism cannot be ignored, and relying on wishful thinking will not lead to progress.”

India Aims to Strengthen Leadership Role in Global South at SCO Summit

India looks to assert its leadership role in the Global South at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Heads of Government meeting in Islamabad. The focus will be on strengthening strategic partnerships with Central Asian nations, four of which are SCO members. While India aims to showcase its expertise in sectors like digital public infrastructure, fintech, and startups, China has been advancing various socio-economic initiatives to enhance its influence. This summit presents India with a vital opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the region.

Strict Security Measures Implemented Ahead of SCO Summit in Pakistan

As per sources,to ensure the successful conduct of the SCO summit, a series of stringent measures have been enacted. Enhanced security has been established at Adiala Jail, where former Prime Minister Imran Khan is detained, restricting access for his supporters, lawyers, and family members. The Punjab government indicated that this decision was made at the district administration’s request to safeguard public safety and prevent any potential threats.

Additionally, the central government of Pakistan has deployed troops from the Pakistan Army in Islamabad from October 5 to 17, under Article 245 of the Constitution, to maintain law and order during the summit. Officials have also announced that marriage halls, restaurants, and cafes in Rawalpindi and Islamabad will be closed for five days.

ALSO READ : India-Canada Relations: India Condemns Trudeau’s Baseless Allegations Amid Nijjar Murder Controversy;Withdraws Canada Envoy,Expels 6 Canadian Diplomats