On October 15, 2024, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is set to arrive in Islamabad, marking a significant diplomatic engagement as part of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit. This two-day event is the first visit by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan in nearly nine years, reflecting cautious yet strategic participation by India amidst strained bilateral relations.

The summit brings together key leaders from member nations, including Chinese Premier Li Qiang and other dignitaries from Central Asian nations. While Pakistan’s capital remains under tight security due to political unrest and threats of violence, the event underscores the importance of multilateral cooperation in the region.

However, any direct bilateral talks between Jaishankar and his Pakistani counterpart have been ruled out. Jaishankar’s attendance symbolizes India’s pragmatic engagement with regional forums, despite unresolved tensions over cross-border terrorism and Kashmir issues.

The visit follows Pakistan’s formal invitation to India for the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting, indicating the importance of such platforms in fostering dialogue among member states while managing geopolitical complexities.