Diplomatic Visit: Jaishankar's Trip to Pakistan Marks a Decade

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is visiting Pakistan for a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation conclave, marking the first high-level Indian visit in years. Though no bilateral talks are planned, the visit underscores India's commitment to the SCO amid strained relations due to terrorism and Kashmir issues.

In a significant diplomatic move, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is making a brief visit to Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. This marks the first high-level Indian visit to Pakistan in nearly a decade, amidst ongoing tensions between the two nations.

Upon arrival in Islamabad on Tuesday, Jaishankar is expected to attend a banquet hosted by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for the SCO delegates. However, officials have ruled out any bilateral talks with his Pakistan counterpart, Ishaq Dar, during the summit.

The strained relations, exacerbated by terrorist activities and the Kashmir conflict, remain at the forefront. Jaishankar's visit does, however, highlight India's commitment to regional cooperation within the SCO framework, as emphasized in his recent address about India's willingness to improve relations with Pakistan.

(With inputs from agencies.)