Pakistan is hosting the 23rd edition of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit on October 15 and 16. Senior leaders from Islamabad’s all-time friend China and its arch rival India are attending amid tight security measures. While Islamabad is trying its best to welcome 900 foreign delegates, the SCO summit is being held in the shadow of terrorist attacks and protests by jailed former PM Imran Khan’s party. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is set to attend the SCO summit. Dr. Jaishankar will lead the Indian delegation and raise India’s concerns related to cross-border terrorism.
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First visit of Indian Foreign Minister in nine years
India’s External Affairs Minister has already made it clear that there will be no discussion on India-Pakistan relations and his visit is expected to be brief. Jaishankar’s visit to Pakistan is the first by an Indian foreign minister in nine years since his predecessor Sushma Swaraj in 2015.
What to expect from Jaishankar’s visit to Pakistan?
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will lead the Indian delegation at the SCO summit. Jaishankar will raise India’s concerns on cross-border terrorism and fulfillment of obligations and boost New Delhi’s efforts to strengthen cooperation with other SCO member-states. Jaishankar has ruled out the possibility of bilateral talks with Pakistani officials amid tensions between the two neighbours.
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Arrival of guests amidst increased security
The SCO to be held on October 16 will discuss ongoing cooperation in the areas of economy, trade and environment and review the performance of the organization. Also, the budget of the organization will be approved to further increase cooperation between the member countries. Guests started arriving in Islamabad from Monday itself to attend the SCO summit. Keeping in mind the safety of the guests, security has been increased in Islamabad.
