What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar stated that cooperation must be based on mutual respect and sovereignty, not unilateral agendas.
NEW DELHI: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar criticized unilateral connectivity initiatives in the region during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Islamabad on October 16, 2024. Referring to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Jaishankar highlighted cross-border terrorism, extremism, and separatism as major obstacles to regional trade and connectivity. He emphasized that cooperation should be based on mutual respect, territorial integrity, and sovereignty, not unilateral agendas.
“Cooperation must be based on mutual respect and sovereign equality. It should recognize territorial integrity and sovereignty. It must be built on genuine partnerships, not unilateral agendas. It cannot progress if we cherry-pick global practices, especially of trade and transit,” the Minister said.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed Jaishankar at the summit venue. Leaders from Russia, China, Central Asia, Belarus, and Iran attended the event. This marks the first visit by an Indian Foreign Minister to Pakistan in nine years and the first high-level interaction between Indian and Pakistani leaders since the May 2023 SCO meeting.
READ ALSO: India launches 3 AI CoE to tackle healthcare, agriculture, cities
The group participated in photo sessions before starting the 23rd SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) plenary session. Jaishankar called for an introspective look into regional relations, urging nations to prioritize genuine partnerships rather than cherry-picking global practices.
During the meeting, several key documents are expected to be signed, including agreements on trade, economic preferences, and creative economy development among the SCO members. Jaishankar’s participation marks the first Indian Foreign Minister’s visit to Pakistan in nine years and the first high-level interaction between Indian and Pakistani leaders since the May 2023 SCO meeting.
Earlier the EAM planted a sapling at the High Commission of India at Islamabad. Sharing a post on X, Jaishankar wrote, “An Arjuna sapling at @IndiainPakistan premises is another commitment to #Plant4Mother.”
READ ALSO: Air India flight diverted to Canada following security threat
Jaishankar called for an introspective approach to regional relations, urging nations to prioritize genuine partnerships over selective adoption of global practices. His remarks highlighted the need for cooperation based on mutual respect, territorial integrity, and sovereignty.
Jaishankar’s participation in the summit underscores India’s commitment to engaging with regional partners while advocating for a balanced and respectful approach to connectivity and cooperation. The summit’s outcomes are anticipated to shape the future of regional trade and diplomatic relations within the SCO framework.
