India’s Jaishankar departs after SCO summit, thanks Pakistan for warm hospitality

Indian external affairs minister and Ishaq Dar sat next to each other during luncheon hosted by PM Shehbaz Sharif

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has left Pakistan after attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. Before his departure, Jaishankar expressed his gratitude to the Pakistani government for their "splendid hospitality" in a message posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

"I thank the Government of Pakistan for the warm hospitality," Jaishankar wrote, extending further appreciation to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for his graciousness during the event.

The Indian foreign minister also thanked his counterpart, Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and the people of Pakistan for the warm reception he received. He acknowledged the significance of his meetings, including face-to-face discussions with Dar during the summit.

Jaishankar attended a luncheon hosted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for the delegates at the summit, where he and Dar sat next to each other. According to sources from Express News, the two engaged in informal conversations during the meal.

Earlier, Jaishankar had congratulated Pakistan on assuming the chairmanship of the SCO Heads of Council. Speaking at the summit in Islamabad, he assured that India would offer "full cooperation" during Pakistan’s tenure as chair.

"Our meeting is taking place at a time when the world is facing significant challenges. Two major conflicts are ongoing, which are affecting the global situation. Additionally, the Covid-19 pandemic has severely impacted developing countries," Jaishankar said in his address.

He highlighted the economic pressures faced by SCO member states, including debt challenges, and stressed the importance of mutual cooperation. The key objectives of the SCO Charter, he noted, are building mutual trust, friendship, and promoting cordial relations with neighbouring countries. He emphasised that addressing issues such as terrorism, separatism, and extremism is crucial for regional stability.

"The relevance of tackling these challenges has increased in the current global context. Honest dialogue and trust between nations are essential," Jaishankar added, calling for regional unity to overcome the hurdles faced by the organisation.

The Indian external affairs minister concluded his remarks by urging SCO members to adhere to the organisation's charter and maximise the benefits of cooperation. He stressed that enhanced trade, communication, and energy collaboration would open new avenues of growth for the region and beyond.