External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a pointed message during his visit to Pakistan, highlighting that terrorism, extremism, and separatism are major obstacles to trade and connectivity in the region. Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conclave, he emphasized that the advancement of trade and energy initiatives depends on a firm commitment to countering these "three evils." Jaishankar asserted that any cross-border activities characterized by these issues would undermine efforts to enhance trade, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges.

His comments followed suggestions from Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif regarding the expansion of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) within the SCO framework, a project that India opposes due to its route through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Jaishankar's remarks also reflected ongoing tensions, particularly in light of the military standoff between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh and concerns about China's assertive actions in the Indian Ocean.

Marking a significant moment in bilateral relations, Jaishankar's visit was the first by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan in nearly a decade. He highlighted the importance of cooperation based on mutual respect and sovereign equality among SCO member states. Stressing adherence to the SCO charter, Jaishankar underscored the need for genuine partnerships, cautioning against unilateral agendas that may disrupt regional stability.