SCO Meeting: Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Skips Kashmir Issue

At the conclusion of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting in Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged the international community to focus on the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict but notably avoided mentioning the Kashmir issue.

In his closing remarks, Sharif emphasized collaboration over political divisions, stating, “Let us prioritize collaborations… and work hand in hand to ensure that the SCO remains a beacon of stability.” He then condemned the situation in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire and support for Palestinian statehood.

His silence on Kashmir, a longstanding point of contention with India, sparked speculation among analysts about potential shifts in diplomatic relations. Earlier, Sharif had demanded that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) be viewed without political biases.

Historically, Pakistan has insisted that talks with India are contingent upon the reversal of India’s 2019 decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. However, both nations chose to remain diplomatic in their statements during the SCO meeting.

Sharif’s omission of Kashmir is expected to draw criticism from his political rivals, especially given his recent rhetoric threatening a “decisive response” to India at the UN General Assembly.