As Pakistan prepares to chair the upcoming SCO CHG meeting, they have extended a formal invitation to Indian Prime Minister Modi. However, it is highly unlikely that Modi will accept the invitation given the strained relations and ongoing tensions between the two countries. This invitation comes amid concerns about China's growing influence within the SCO and the recent surge in terrorist activities in Jammu. The last high-level visit between India and Pakistan was in 2015, highlighting the rarity of such engagements in recent years.
India-Pakistan Tensions Cast Shadow Over SCO Summit Invitation
Background
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a regional security and economic cooperation group founded in 2001. Its members include China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, and Pakistan.
Pakistan's Invitation to Modi
Amid ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, Pakistan has extended a formal invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the upcoming SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) meeting. The meeting is scheduled to take place in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, on November 2-3, 2023.
India's Unlikely Acceptance
However, it is highly unlikely that Modi will accept Pakistan's invitation. Relations between the two countries have been strained for decades due to a number of unresolved issues, including the Kashmir dispute and cross-border terrorism. The last high-level visit between India and Pakistan was in 2015, highlighting the rarity of such engagements in recent years.
Concerns Over China's Influence
India's reluctance to attend the SCO summit is also influenced by concerns about China's growing influence within the organization. China is the dominant power in the SCO, and its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is seen by India as a challenge to its own regional influence.
Recent Terrorist Activities
Another factor contributing to India's decision is the recent surge in terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir. In October 2022, a series of bombings and shootings targeted Indian security forces in the region. India has accused Pakistan of supporting these terrorist groups, further escalating tensions between the two countries.
FAQs
1. Why has Pakistan invited Modi to the SCO summit? Pakistan routinely invites all SCO member states to its meetings.
2. Why is it unlikely that Modi will attend? Relations between India and Pakistan are strained due to the Kashmir dispute and cross-border terrorism.
3. What is the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation? The SCO is a regional security and economic cooperation group that includes China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, and Pakistan.
4. What are India's concerns about the SCO? India is concerned about China's growing influence within the SCO and its Belt and Road Initiative.
5. What is the impact of recent terrorist activities on India-Pakistan relations? Recent terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir have further escalated tensions between India and Pakistan and made it less likely that Modi will attend the SCO summit.
The navies of India, the US, Australia, and Japan will participate in the 28th edition of Exercise Malabar, with a focus on enhancing interoperability and addressing shared maritime challenges. The exercise, hosted by India, will involve activities such as special operations, air and anti-submarine warfare, and surface warfare, making it the most comprehensive edition of Malabar so far. With the participation of Special Forces from all four countries, Malabar 2024 aims to boost cooperation and operational capabilities in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific region.
Intel from the recent Friday prayers at Tehran's Grand Mosalla Mosque reveals Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's views on Iran's attack on Israel earlier this week. Addressing a massive crowd, Khamenei called the attack "completely legal and legitimate work" and also delivered a message to the Islamic world, particularly Lebanon and Palestine. The event also included a ceremony commemorating the death of Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah by the Israeli Air Force. Khamenei expressed the need to honour Nasrallah, whom he described as an "admired personality" and urged the youth of Hezbollah to fulfil his wishes and defend the region from external threats.
A ferry carrying scores of passengers capsized on Lake Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, killing at least 50 people. A witness captured footage of the tragic event, which has caused a deep sense of grief and mourning in the community. The exact number of people on board and the total fatalities are still unknown at this time. Emergency responders, including ambulances, rushed to the scene to aid any survivors and carry away victims. The incident has left the city of Goma in shock and mourning.
In a tragic incident on Lake Kivu in eastern Congo, a video has emerged showing the moment a boat carrying numerous passengers capsized. According to witnesses, at least 50 people have lost their lives in this accident. The authorities are still conducting search and rescue operations. Stay tuned to Al Jazeera English for more updates on this developing story.
In his first phone call with South Korean President Suk-yeol, newly minted Prime Minister Ishiba reaffirmed the importance of closely communicating between the two nations, including through shuttle diplomacy. The leaders also pledged to strengthen security cooperation with the United States in light of North Korea's continued nuclear and missile developments. President Yoon expressed hope for even closer relations between the two countries as they approach the 60th anniversary of their bilateral ties next year.
Mexican soldiers have opened fire on a truck carrying immigrants, mostly from India and Pakistan, leaving six dead and ten injured. The Indian embassy has issued a warning for travelers about potential immigration policies and detentions at Mexico's borders. The soldiers involved have been arrested and an investigation is ongoing.
In a case dating back to 2011, former editor of the daily Amar Desh, Mahmudur Rahman, was granted bail by a Dhaka court on Thursday. The case involved an alleged plot to abduct and kill Sheikh Hasina's son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy. Along with Rahman, four others were also accused and convicted in the case. This development comes after Rahman was already in jail for a different case.
In this episode of "News Today," experts discuss the ongoing clashes between Israel and Hezbollah in West Asia, as well as President Joe Biden's stance on Israel's reported plans to strike Iran's nuclear facilities. Questions are raised about the role of the United States and the world community in this conflict and whether Israel's actions have put America in a difficult position. Viewers can tune in to hear expert opinions on the escalating tensions.
A 72-year-old British tourist tragically passed away after a suspected heart attack while swimming in a popular part of Spain. The incident highlights the danger of strong ocean currents at the beach, where seven individuals have now lost their lives this year. Despite efforts from lifeguards and warnings put up by the local council, these tragedies continue to occur, including one involving a brave tourist who tried to save two children in distress.
In a move to promote the preservation and research of Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali, the Indian government has granted them the status of Classical Language. This decision will enhance the cultural and linguistic identity of the speakers and contribute to the conservation of ancient literature and texts. The digitization of manuscripts will also ensure that future generations have access to these valuable works.