Jaishankar’s Pakistan Visit: EAM to attend High- Level SCO Meeting on Oct 15-16, Marking Significant Diplomatic Engagement
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will join regional leaders in Islamabad for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. His visit, slated for October 15-16, underscores India’s commitment to SCO objectives.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will be leading the Indian delegation at the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting, where Chinese President Xi Jinping is also expected to be in attendance. This meeting presents a significant opportunity for regional leaders to engage in crucial discussions, fostering cooperation among SCO member countries.
The SCO summit typically brings together leaders from member states, including China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Iran. With President Xi Jinping’s participation confirmed, the meeting is likely to address pressing regional issues.
India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, will make his inaugural visit to Pakistan, leading the Indian delegation to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit.
Background
Pakistan invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the SCO meeting, but a confirmation is pending. Pakistan had earlier invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the meeting but there hasn’t been any update regarding his attendance.
Significance
Jaishankar’s visit marks a notable development in India-Pakistan relations, amidst ongoing tensions. Jaishankar’s visit is assumed to be of great significance, given the long strained relationship between the two countries, especially after 2019.
Objectives
The SCO summit aims to foster regional cooperation, security, and economic ties among member nations. The primary objectives of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit include:
1. Promoting regional security and stability
2. Enhancing mutual trust and cooperation among member states
3. Combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism
4. Fostering economic cooperation and development
5. Strengthening regional integration and connectivity
Specific Goals
1. Counter-terrorism cooperation
2. Border security and management
3. Energy cooperation and resource sharing
4. Transportation and infrastructure development
5. Cultural and people-to-people exchanges
6. Science, technology, and innovation collaboration
7. Enhancing regional economic cooperation and trade
8. Addressing global challenges, such as climate change and pandemics
Strategic Aims
1. Establishing the SCO as a major player in global affairs
2. Promoting multipolar world order
3. Strengthening regional organizations and institutions
4. Enhancing cooperation with observer states and dialogue partners
5. Addressing regional conflicts and disputes through dialogue
These objectives aim to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region, while also addressing global challenges and promoting cooperation among member states.
Key Details
Date: October 15-16
Location: Islamabad, Pakistan
Event: Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit
Indian Delegation Leader: S. Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister
However, Prime Minister Modi had earlier skipped the SCO Summit in Kazakhstan on July 3-4, before he embarked on a trip to Russia. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar led the Indian delegation at the meeting which featured Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
As the SCO continues to evolve, its role in shaping regional dynamics and addressing global challenges will remain crucial. The Islamabad summit is expected to yield significant outcomes, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and collaboration among member states.
