Pakistan’s decision to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Islamabad is a significant gesture that has the potential to influence the dynamics of the two countries’ strained relations. This invitation opens a door, albeit cautiously, for a moment of civility between the leadership of Pakistan and India.
While the likelihood of Modi accepting the invitation seems slim, the mere possibility of the two heads of government coming together, even briefly, would mark an important step in their diplomatic engagement. Since the downgrading of diplomatic ties in August 2019, the absence of high commissioners in each other’s capitals has prolonged the diplomatic impasse, with no tangible benefits for either side.
Pakistan made a significant move when former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari attended the SCO’s Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Goa in May of the previous year. Despite a lukewarm reception, Bhutto-Zardari’s visit signaled Pakistan’s willingness to engage with India diplomatically, highlighting that Pakistan remains open to dialogue.
Should Modi decide to attend the SCO summit in Islamabad, it would be a deeply symbolic act, though not necessarily a game-changer for bilateral relations. The SCO, as a multilateral platform, might not directly address India-Pakistan issues, but it could offer an opportunity to initiate conversations that have been on hold for years.
Both countries share common challenges, such as poverty, inequality, public health, and climate change, which could serve as starting points for broader engagement. Although the historical and ongoing disputes between Pakistan and India are significant, any initial steps towards normalizing relations, even if small, would be a positive development.
The decision now lies with Modi. Given that his previous strategy of demonizing Pakistan has shown diminishing returns in recent Indian elections, this might be the right time for him to explore a different approach, potentially opening a new chapter in India-Pakistan relations.
