Even though Mr. Jaishankar used the usual Indian language about “cross-border terrorism,” he didn’t mention Pakistan directly and his words were written in diplomatese. Even though the format required SCO heads of government to attend, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose to send his top diplomat instead. This has been noted. However, India could have skipped the point entirely given the state of bilateral relations. As a result, under the umbrella of multilateralism, even limited bilateral engagement is welcome.
Mr. Jaishankar thanked the government for its “hospitality and courtesies” and exchanged pleasantries with the prime minister and his Pakistani counterpart. This is definitely a step up from last year, when Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari was met with a hostile reception at the SCO meeting of foreign ministers in Goa.
With the support of China and Russia, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) may be a more effective vehicle for bringing together regional states than the ailing Saarc. This is largely due to India’s refusal to engage Pakistan, even under Saarc’s auspices. However, it’s possible that New Delhi’s perspective is shifting, and it’s also possible that the Indians do not want to appear to sabotage the SCO, which would irritate Beijing and Moscow.
In his remarks in Islamabad, the Indian foreign minister cited “terrorism” and “separatism” as obstacles to “friendship… and good neighborliness.” Naturally, this is the standard Indian line. However, Pakistan also has valid concerns regarding India, including the Kashmir issue, the treatment of Muslims in India, and the activities of subversive elements on Pakistani soil with what appears to be New Delhi’s support.
The participants’ “commitment to the peaceful settlement of differences… through dialogue” was reiterated in the joint communiqué that was released following the SCO summit. The key to peace in the subcontinent is this. All issues that prevent stronger ties should be discussed in uninterruptible dialogue. Even though India’s hawks might dismiss the need to talk to Pakistan, not talking will prevent Delhi from realizing its dreams of regional integration, especially if it wants to reach markets in Eurasian countries. In a similar vein, Pakistan’s hardliners ought to be aware of the potential economic benefits of improved ties with India.
