TWO CHEERS
- External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s visit to Pakistan this week, the first in nearly a decade, has produced a small but unexpected step towards a long overdue thaw in bilateral relations.
Highlights:
- External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s recent visit to Pakistan, the first in nearly a decade, has resulted in a small but significant step toward improving bilateral relations. While this development is notable, challenges remain in an already complex relationship.
Background of the Visit
Expectations and Context:
- The visit was initially downplayed by both sides, likely to manage expectations surrounding any potential dialogue at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Islamabad.
- Jaishankar indicated India's readiness to respond positively to any constructive changes in Pakistan’s approach, particularly following Pakistan's withdrawal of its high commissioner from India and the severing of trade ties after India's constitutional changes in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).
Key Interactions
Civil Engagement:
- Jaishankar committed to a civil approach during his visit. Notably, former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif expressed a desire for normal ties with India and refrained from mentioning Kashmir.
- At the SCO summit, both Jaishankar and Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif adopted a more measured tone, moving away from confrontational rhetoric regarding Kashmir.
Conversations:
- Jaishankar engaged in brief discussions with PM Sharif and had a more in-depth dialogue with Pakistan’s Deputy PM and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, during a formal dinner.
Challenges Ahead
Domestic Criticism:
- Despite these initial steps, both governments are likely to face criticism. In Pakistan, the government may be accused of compromising on Kashmir's constitutional status. In India, there will likely be scrutiny over Pakistan's stance on cross-border terrorism.
Future Considerations:
- The coming weeks will be crucial in determining if there is enough mutual understanding on Kashmir and terrorism to foster cooperation in other areas.
- While early days, the efforts by both Delhi and Islamabad deserve recognition for attempting to create diplomatic avenues for renewed engagement.
Prelims Takeaways:
- India-Pakistan diplomatic relations