In the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit held in Islamabad, India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, made headlines with his candid and assertive diplomacy. His participation marked a significant moment in Indo-Pakistan relations, given the long-standing tension between the two nations over terrorism, border disputes, and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This article provides a detailed account of Jaishankar’s stance, the key messages delivered during the summit, and the broader implications for India, Pakistan, and the region.
Jaishankar’s Bold Stance on Cross-Border Terrorism
One of the central themes of Jaishankar’s address at the summit was terrorism, an issue that continues to strain relations between India and Pakistan. Jaishankar used the platform to unequivocally condemn cross-border terrorism, particularly emphasizing Pakistan’s role in harboring and supporting terrorist organizations. He stated that Pakistan needed to introspect and take responsibility for the deteriorating relations between the two countries, highlighting that terrorism and economic development cannot coexist.
Jaishankar’s comments reflected India’s long-held position that Pakistan must take tangible steps to dismantle terror networks operating from its soil if it genuinely seeks improved ties with India. By bringing this issue to the forefront at a multilateral forum like the SCO, Jaishankar underscored that terrorism is not just a bilateral problem but a global security concern, effectively garnering international attention on the subject.
Tough Message to China on CPEC
In addition to addressing terrorism, Jaishankar took a strong position against the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The project, a part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), which India claims as part of its sovereign territory. Jaishankar described CPEC as a violation of Indian territorial integrity, reinforcing India’s longstanding objections to the initiative.
By taking this firm stand, Jaishankar signaled to both China and Pakistan that India will not tolerate projects that undermine its sovereignty. He made it clear that while India is committed to peaceful and constructive regional cooperation, it will not compromise on matters of national security and territorial integrity.
Pakistan’s Response: A Focus on Poverty
During the summit, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif shifted focus from security concerns to economic issues, particularly poverty alleviation. Sharif’s speech highlighted Pakistan’s struggles with poverty and economic instability, framing it as a moral issue that requires global attention. He called for international cooperation to address these challenges but stopped short of responding directly to India’s concerns about terrorism and territorial integrity.
Observers noted the contrast between India’s assertive stance on security issues and Pakistan’s defensive focus on its domestic economic troubles. Sharif’s attempt to steer the conversation towards poverty seemed like an effort to divert attention from the more contentious issues raised by Jaishankar.
Jaishankar’s Diplomatic Presence in Pakistan
Beyond the content of his speeches, Jaishankar’s very presence in Pakistan was significant. The visit attracted widespread media coverage in both India and Pakistan, with many Pakistani commentators acknowledging the symbolic importance of his trip. Despite the historic tension between the two countries, Jaishankar managed to command respect on Pakistani soil, with the media lauding his diplomatic skill and poise.
His arrival at the Islamabad airport was closely followed by local media, which reported that Jaishankar’s visit marked a shift in how Indian officials are perceived in Pakistan. The media buzz around his presence, from his arrival to his public appearances, demonstrated India’s growing diplomatic clout and the changing dynamics of Indo-Pakistani relations.
Jaishankar’s Strategic Diplomacy: A Measured Approach
Jaishankar’s diplomatic approach during the SCO Summit was characterized by firmness and tact. He avoided any inflammatory language while still delivering a clear and strong message to Pakistan and China. His statements were direct but measured, reflecting his deep understanding of international diplomacy.
By criticizing terrorism and CPEC, Jaishankar maintained India’s uncompromising stance on critical issues without alienating the SCO member states. He managed to address contentious topics in a manner that reinforced India’s position as a responsible global player, committed to regional peace but unwilling to tolerate actions that threaten its sovereignty or security.
The Regional and Global Implications
Jaishankar’s strong messaging at the SCO Summit has several implications:
- India’s Growing Regional Influence: By standing firm on issues like terrorism and territorial integrity, India showcased its growing influence in regional geopolitics. Jaishankar’s remarks were not just directed at Pakistan and China but also at the broader international community, signaling that India is ready to take on a leadership role in addressing regional security concerns.
- Diplomatic Isolation of Pakistan: Pakistan’s focus on economic troubles, while valid, seemed to sidestep the more urgent issue of terrorism, which remains a stumbling block in its relations with India. Jaishankar’s pointed criticism of Pakistan’s role in supporting terrorism further highlighted the diplomatic isolation Pakistan faces on the global stage when it comes to this issue.
- India-China Relations: By openly criticizing CPEC, Jaishankar sent a clear message to China about India’s non-negotiable stance on sovereignty. While India and China have economic and strategic ties, issues like CPEC and border disputes remain significant points of contention. Jaishankar’s statements are likely to add to the complexities of India-China relations, especially in the context of ongoing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
- Impact on SCO: The SCO, which includes major powers like Russia and China, serves as a platform for regional cooperation on security, economic, and cultural issues. India’s active and assertive participation in the summit demonstrated that it will continue to leverage such platforms to promote its national interests while contributing to broader regional stability.
Conclusion
S. Jaishankar’s presence and performance at the SCO Summit in Islamabad were a testament to India’s evolving diplomatic strategy. His firm stance on terrorism, rejection of CPEC, and overall diplomatic poise reaffirmed India’s position as a leading player in regional and global geopolitics. By addressing critical issues head-on, Jaishankar not only defended India’s national interests but also reinforced the country’s growing influence on the international stage.
His visit to Pakistan, despite the historically tense relationship, showcased a new level of confidence in Indian diplomacy. As India continues to assert itself on the global stage, Jaishankar’s approach at the SCO Summit offers a glimpse into how India plans to navigate complex regional dynamics in the future.