In a historical development, the Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar visited Pakistan to attend the SCO Summit 2024. This marked the first visit by an Indian EAM to Pakistan in nearly a decade, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation and dialogue. During his visit, Jaishankar addressed critical issues, including the fight against terrorism and extremism, while urging member states to adopt a firm stance against these issues. He also expressed gratitude to the Pakistani government for their hospitality, emphasizing the significance of dialogue in promoting regional cooperation. This visit could potentially open up avenues for future collaborations and improved relations between the two countries.
S Jaishankar's Historic Visit to Pakistan for SCO Summit: A Step Towards Regional Cooperation
Background
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a regional security organization founded in 2001. Its member states include China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Iran. The SCO aims to promote cooperation in various areas, including security, economic development, and cultural exchange.
Jaishankar's Visit
In a significant development, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar visited Pakistan on September 29, 2024, to attend the SCO Summit. This marked the first visit by an Indian EAM to Pakistan since 2015.
During his visit, Jaishankar met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. They discussed issues of mutual interest, including terrorism, regional cooperation, and trade.
Jaishankar also addressed the SCO Summit, where he stressed the need for a collective fight against terrorism and extremism. He called upon member states to adopt a firm stance against these threats.
Significance
Jaishankar's visit to Pakistan was a significant step towards improving relations between the two countries. It highlighted the importance of dialogue and regional cooperation. The visit also provided an opportunity to address critical issues such as terrorism and economic connectivity.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why did Jaishankar visit Pakistan? Jaishankar visited Pakistan to attend the SCO Summit and to engage in bilateral discussions with Pakistani officials.
2. What was the outcome of Jaishankar's visit? Jaishankar's visit laid the groundwork for future cooperation between India and Pakistan and highlighted the importance of regional cooperation.
3. What are the key issues that India and Pakistan discussed? India and Pakistan discussed terrorism, regional cooperation, and trade.
4. What is the significance of the SCO Summit for India? The SCO Summit is an important platform for India to engage with regional powers and promote its interests in the region.
5. What are the challenges to improved relations between India and Pakistan? The main challenges include the ongoing Kashmir dispute and cross-border terrorism.
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