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India, Pak open window: Cricket on table, Ministers hold talks

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Last Updated18/10/2024

In the first direct conversation between Foreign Ministers of India and Pakistan since 2015, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar spoke twice in less than 24 hours.

In a significant diplomatic development, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar held two conversations within 24 hours, marking the first direct engagement between the foreign ministers of the two nations since 2015.

The conversations reportedly included discussions about resuming cricketing ties between India and Pakistan, a significant diplomatic signal given the strained relations over the years. While sources emphasized that these discussions were still preliminary and would require further deliberation, the talks opened a window of opportunity. A possible first step being explored is India's participation in the Champions Trophy set to be hosted by Pakistan in February 2025.

Despite the positive atmosphere, sources stressed that the issue needs careful consideration due to the longstanding diplomatic freeze between the two countries. A significant challenge will be managing the packed international schedules of both teams, along with security and logistical concerns surrounding India's potential visit to Pakistan for the first time in 17 years.

This meeting was markedly different from the SCO meeting in Goa in 2023, where tensions flared after Jaishankar targeted the then Pakistan Foreign Minister, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, by calling him a “spokesperson for the terrorism industry.” However, the Islamabad talks avoided such provocations, with both sides sticking to formal diplomatic tones. Jaishankar expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s hospitality, and Pakistan’s ministers focused on multilateral cooperation.

Dar, who is a close confidant and relative of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, holds significant influence in Pakistan's current establishment. His involvement adds weight to these initial talks, indicating that Pakistan is serious about exploring avenues of engagement.

The Champions Trophy (February 19 to March 9, 2025) presents a potential diplomatic breakthrough if India agrees to participate. If confirmed, this would mark India’s first visit to Pakistan in 17 years. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been in discussions with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), proposing various scheduling options, including matches in Lahore and Rawalpindi.

Both India and Pakistan face tightly packed international schedules, which will need to be adjusted to accommodate any potential bilateral series or participation in the Champions Trophy. The PCB has made efforts to accommodate India's concerns, including suggestions for flexible travel arrangements for Indian players.