Historic Diplomatic Encounter: Indian Foreign Minister's Visit to Pakistan After a Decade

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar will visit Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, marking the first such trip in nearly a decade. This diplomatic move occurs amidst strained relations due to the ongoing Kashmir dispute. Jaishankar will lead the Indian delegation on October 15-16, representing a potential diplomatic thaw.

In a diplomatic development that could potentially ease tensions, Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar is set to visit Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit this month, according to an announcement by the Indian foreign ministry spokesman on Friday.

This visit, scheduled for October 15th and 16th, marks the first time in nearly ten years that an Indian foreign minister will step foot on Pakistani soil. The trip comes at a time of heightened tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors, primarily due to ongoing disputes over the Kashmir region. While Jaishankar will head the Indian delegation, it remains unconfirmed if he will meet Pakistani leaders on the meeting's sidelines.

The backdrop of this visit is a fraught history marked by three wars, with two fought over the contested Kashmir territory. Relations between India and Pakistan have remained largely strained, particularly after diplomatic ties were downgraded in 2019. However, Jaishankar's presence at the summit could herald a new chapter if both sides engage in constructive dialogue.

(With inputs from agencies.)