The SCO Summit 2024 is underway, hosted by Pakistan on Tuesday and Wednesday. This significant gathering of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is witnessing the participation of senior leaders from its key member nations, including China and India, amidst a tense atmosphere marked by strict security measures. With around 900 foreign delegates arriving in Islamabad, the Pakistani government is keen to present a positive image, but the backdrop includes rising security threats and political unrest stemming from the ongoing protests related to jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

A Historic Attendance

The attendance of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar at the SCO Summit marks a notable diplomatic event, being the first visit by an Indian EAM to Pakistan in nine years. Jaishankar's predecessor, Sushma Swaraj, last visited Pakistan in 2015, making this occasion particularly significant for Indian diplomacy. During the summit, Jaishankar is expected to lead the Indian delegation and address key concerns, particularly those related to cross-border terrorism.

While the summit provides a platform for multilateral discussions, Jaishankar has already emphasized that there will be no formal discussions regarding India-Pakistan relations during this meeting. This stance underscores India's long-standing apprehensions about engaging in dialogue with Pakistan, especially under the current circumstances where terrorism remains a critical issue.

Security Measures and Protests

The security measures in place for the summit are exceptionally stringent, reflecting the gravity of the situation. Pakistan has faced a series of terrorist attacks in recent months, prompting the government to ensure the safety of delegates and maintain order during the summit. These attacks have heightened public concern and contributed to the political instability in the country.

Compounding these issues are the ongoing protests associated with Imran Khan's party, which have drawn significant attention both domestically and internationally. Khan, a controversial figure in Pakistani politics, has faced legal challenges and imprisonment, leading his supporters to stage demonstrations, which adds another layer of complexity to the summit's proceedings.

Diplomatic Context

The SCO Summit serves as a vital forum for member countries to discuss issues of regional significance, including security, economic cooperation, and cultural exchanges. As a member of this organization, India is keen on leveraging the summit to address its security concerns, particularly related to terrorism emanating from across its borders.

In light of the summit's significance, Pakistan's role as the host is scrutinized closely by the international community. The country seeks to showcase its commitment to combating terrorism and fostering regional stability. However, with internal challenges and external pressures, the effectiveness of Pakistan's diplomatic efforts remains to be seen.

Conclusion

The SCO Summit 2024 in Pakistan is a pivotal event that underscores the delicate balance of diplomacy, security, and regional cooperation. With leaders from China and India participating, the discussions will likely focus on pressing issues such as terrorism and regional stability. As the world watches closely, the outcomes of this summit could have far-reaching implications for the future of international relations in the region.

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