Wed Oct 16 07:01:55 UTC 2024: ## Jaishankar Makes Historic Visit to Pakistan Amidst Tensions for SCO Summit

**Islamabad, Pakistan** – External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar arrived in Pakistan on Tuesday for a historic visit to attend the 23rd Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) in Islamabad. His visit marks the first time an Indian Foreign Minister has traveled to Pakistan in nearly nine years, amidst ongoing tensions over Kashmir and cross-border terrorism.

Despite the frosty bilateral relations, Jaishankar’s visit underscores India’s commitment to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), a key Eurasian security and political alliance established in 2001 by Russia and China.

Jaishankar’s visit has been met with a mix of anticipation and caution. While Pakistan eagerly awaits his arrival, India has ruled out any bilateral talks with Pakistan during his stay.

**Security Concerns and Tensions:**

The SCO Summit comes at a time of heightened security concerns in Pakistan. The country is grappling with a surge in militant violence, including the recent killing of two Chinese workers in Balochistan.

Furthermore, Pakistan’s political landscape is strained, with former Prime Minister Imran Khan calling for protests against the current government. The authorities have deployed over 10,000 security personnel to ensure the safety of the summit, which includes leaders from China, Russia, and other SCO member states.

**Focus on Cooperation:**

Despite the challenges, the SCO summit will focus on strengthening cooperation in areas of economy, trade, environment, and socio-cultural linkages.

Jaishankar, in a symbolic gesture, planted a sapling during a morning walk at the Indian High Commission premises in Islamabad, highlighting the importance of environmental protection.

**Hope for a New Chapter?**

While India and Pakistan have ruled out bilateral talks, some voices in India, like former J&K Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, have expressed hope that Jaishankar’s visit could mark a new chapter in relations between the two countries.

“I hope that both countries will start a new chapter for peace. I hope that good things will happen,” Abdullah said, emphasizing the importance of improving ties between the two neighboring nations.

The SCO summit will be closely watched as a potential platform for dialogue and engagement between India and Pakistan, even amidst the ongoing challenges.

Read More