Wed Oct 16 12:03:20 UTC 2024: ## India and Pakistan Engage in Diplomatic Dance at SCO Summit

**Islamabad, Pakistan:** The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Islamabad saw a mix of diplomacy and tension between India and Pakistan, with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar advocating for good neighborliness and cooperation while reiterating India’s opposition to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Jaishankar, during his visit to Pakistan, emphasized the importance of cooperation and trust between the two nations, calling for introspection on any shortcomings in their relationship. He stressed the need for honest conversations and addressing the causes of any lack of trust or cooperation.

However, India remained firm in its opposition to the BRI, which includes the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passing through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The joint communique released at the end of the summit reaffirmed support for the BRI by all SCO member countries except India.

Despite the tensions, both nations expressed a desire for enhanced economic ties and cooperation within the SCO framework. Jaishankar highlighted India’s commitment to regional stability and growth, while Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for collaborative action plans to benefit the economies and societies of member states.

China and Russia, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of regional cooperation and economic integration within the SCO, calling for stronger partnerships to counter terrorism. Both nations advocated for improved infrastructure and connectivity within the region.

The SCO summit, though marked by India’s consistent opposition to the BRI, served as a platform for dialogue and cooperation between India and Pakistan, with both nations expressing their commitment to the SCO’s objectives. The future of bilateral relations remains uncertain, but the summit highlighted the importance of continued communication and engagement for the sake of regional stability and prosperity.

Read More