New Delhi, October 2024 – India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, has categorically ruled out the possibility of bilateral talks with Pakistan during his upcoming visit to Islamabad for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conclave. Addressing media queries on the subject, Jaishankar emphasized that his participation in the SCO is strictly within the framework of multilateral diplomacy, dismissing speculations about any potential thaw in India-Pakistan relations.
Speaking at a press briefing, Jaishankar said, “We will behave accordingly to the multilateral format of the event. Our focus will remain on the larger agenda of the SCO, and bilateral engagements are not on the cards.” His remarks underline India’s stance that its ties with Pakistan continue to be strained, largely due to long-standing issues such as cross-border terrorism and unresolved territorial disputes.
Focus on Multilateral Cooperation
The SCO conclave, scheduled for mid-October in Pakistan, will bring together foreign ministers from the member countries to discuss regional security, economic development, and cooperation on counterterrorism. Jaishankar reaffirmed that India’s focus will be on advancing regional cooperation and multilateralism within the SCO framework.
Jaishankar’s visit, although significant as an Indian diplomat’s rare official trip to Pakistan, will primarily involve discussions related to the goals of the SCO. India, which has consistently advocated for regional stability, economic integration, and counterterrorism measures, will prioritize these topics at the meeting.
India-Pakistan Relations: Stalemate Continues
India and Pakistan’s bilateral ties have been at a standstill for several years, marked by deep mistrust and unresolved tensions. The ongoing hostilities stem largely from issues like Pakistan’s alleged support for terrorism and the Kashmir dispute, making any direct dialogue unlikely at the moment.
Jaishankar’s statement further solidifies India’s position that the environment is not conducive to bilateral talks, given the lack of action by Pakistan on cross-border terrorism. Despite Pakistan’s recent calls for engagement, India has maintained that meaningful dialogue can only resume once there is tangible action on terror-related concerns.
The Role of the SCO Conclave
As a key member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation since 2017, India remains committed to engaging with regional partners on collective security and economic development. However, this does not extend to any softening of its position on Pakistan, especially in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The SCO, with its focus on regional security, terrorism, and economic partnerships, provides a neutral platform for member nations to collaborate. Yet, India’s participation remains strictly confined to these broader agendas, and Jaishankar’s remarks reinforce that no bilateral breakthroughs are expected.
Diplomatic Formality vs. Strategic Dialogue
Analysts believe that Jaishankar’s firm stance aligns with India’s long-standing diplomatic approach towards Pakistan. While multilateral platforms like the SCO offer opportunities for diplomatic engagement, India’s policy remains focused on resolving issues through international cooperation rather than bilateral discussions in the current climate.
Conclusion
As Dr. S. Jaishankar prepares for his visit to Pakistan for the SCO conclave, his assertion that India will not engage in bilateral talks with Pakistan further confirms the continuing stalemate between the two neighbors. India’s participation in the SCO will remain centered on multilateral cooperation, with no immediate signs of easing tensions in sight.
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