In a significant move amidst strained diplomatic ties, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar traveled to Islamabad after nine years to attend a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conclave. His visit, taking place against the backdrop of frozen relations between India and Pakistan, presented an opportunity for India to deliver a nuanced message to both Pakistan and China.
During his address at the 23rd meeting of the Council of the Heads of Government (CHG) of the SCO, Jaishankar subtly addressed the ongoing tensions between India and its neighbours, emphasizing the need for a ‘honest conversation’ on the lack of trust. He asserted that trade and connectivity initiatives must be built on mutual respect, territorial integrity, and genuine partnerships, hinting at concerns regarding China’s assertive policies in the region.
Jaishankar’s remarks came at a crucial time, marked by the lingering military standoff between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh. Concerns over China’s growing military presence in the Indian Ocean and other strategic waters further fueled the need for diplomatic engagement and clarity.
In his speech, Jaishankar underlined the importance of upholding the SCO’s Charter, which calls for strengthening mutual trust, friendship, and good neighbourliness. He highlighted the need for sincere commitment to the Charter’s core principles of combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
He emphasized that the SCO’s efforts to promote regional cooperation and integration could be significantly bolstered by a commitment to the Charter’s principles. Jaishankar also emphasized the need for ‘reformed multilateralism,’ advocating for comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council to ensure greater representation of developing countries.
The SCO, consisting of eight member states (China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan), serves as a platform for regional cooperation on issues ranging from security and trade to culture and education. As India, Pakistan, and China navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, the SCO provides a forum for dialogue and potential solutions.
Jaishankar’s visit to Islamabad and his address at the SCO conclave are significant events in the context of evolving regional dynamics. His veiled messages to both Pakistan and China, coupled with his call for renewed commitment to the SCO Charter, highlight the complexities and opportunities that lie ahead in promoting regional stability and cooperation.