In this episode of “Unraveled with Marvi Sirmed,” Mariana Babar, a senior correspondent on foreign policy, explained the significance and expected outcomes of the 23rd meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), held in Islamabad, Pakistan.
She discussed the much-anticipated visit of India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, marking his first trip to Pakistan in eight years, despite his firm dismissal of any potential bilateral discussions with the country.
Babar noted, “When Jaishankar was the Ambassador and High Commissioner in the Indian foreign office, he was a superb diplomat, and his diplomacy did a lot of good for India. However, when he joined the BJP and became a politician, we saw a marked difference in the way he approached issues, especially those concerning Pakistan. Suddenly, he became a spokesperson for the BJP and Indian Prime Minister Modi.”
Jaishankar has been making strong, harsh statements against Pakistan in recent weeks, and he has already announced that there will be no bilateral talks during this visit, she added.
When asked about India’s staunch opposition to China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) due to its route through disputed territories, Babar responded, “I do not think Jaishankar will risk bringing up something that could lead to bilateral tensions. I don't expect him to directly attack the CPEC, as he cannot afford to annoy China, which is behind this initiative that Pakistan and many other countries have joined. However, I am sure he will discuss other issues, such as the Chabahar Port.”
Regarding the Kartarpur Corridor, Babar mentioned that India was initially hesitant, but the large Sikh community in India and abroad pushed for its establishment. “When India and Pakistan set their minds to something, it happens. The SCO provides a great platform for these two countries to sit and talk under one roof,” she said.
She further stated, “I don’t see any breakthrough for India and Pakistan at this SCO meeting. However, I do believe that friends of both countries are talking to them away from the crowds and the media, encouraging them to put their differences aside. I think Russia and China will lose patience with India and Pakistan because of their stubbornness regarding bilateral issues. If India and Pakistan can step back from their challenges and give forums like BRICS and SCO a chance, they will both benefit.”