India’s External affairs minister S Jaishankar creates history by visiting Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting, making him the first EAM to do so in nine years. The meeting, attended by Chinese Premier Li Qiang, is seen as a potential new beginning in Indo-Pak relations.
Jaishankar’s visit has sparked hopes in Islamabad for improved ties post terror attacks and Article 370’s abrogation. The SCO meet in Pakistan sees dignitaries from various countries, emphasizing India’s interest in Central Asia for security and trade benefits.
With a focus on effective counter-terror mechanisms and inclusive connectivity corridors in Eurasia, India aims to boost cooperation and extend expertise in various sectors to SCO states. Pakistan, as SCO chair, looks to address economic, trade, and connectivity matters.
Established in 2001, the SCO now includes India and Pakistan among its nine members, representing 40% of the world’s population. The organization emphasizes combating terrorism, promoting trade, economic cooperation, and cultural ties among member states.