Will Pakistan's FM Ishaq Dar Strengthen Ties in China Post Operation Sindoor?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ishaq Dar's visit to China is a crucial step in addressing Pakistan's international isolation.
- Discussions will focus on the regional security situation and bilateral relations.
- This visit marks the first foreign trip for Dar after the recent escalation with India.
- Trilateral talks with Afghanistan will also take place to promote regional cooperation.
- Operation Sindoor has heightened tensions in the region, making these talks even more significant.
Islamabad, May 18 (NationPress) Following its isolation by the global community after Operation Sindoor, Pakistan's Foreign Minister (FM) Ishaq Dar is set to visit China on May 19 to meet with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi. This meeting comes after Pakistan faced a setback against India.
The Pakistan Foreign Office stated in a release that Ishaq Dar will be in China from May 19 to 21 at the invitation of Wang for discussions on shared interests.
“The Foreign Minister will engage in thorough discussions with Foreign Minister Wang Yi, focusing on the evolving regional dynamics in South Asia and its implications for peace and stability,” the statement added.
This trip marks the first international journey for the Pakistan Foreign Minister since the ceasefire between India and Pakistan, which followed the Pahalgam terror attack that escalated tensions between the two nuclear neighbors.
“The two nations will assess the full scope of Pakistan-China bilateral relations and exchange insights on regional and global issues of mutual concern,” the Foreign Office noted.
Additionally, Geo News reported that Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is expected to arrive in China on May 20 for a trilateral dialogue with Dar and Wang.
Dar will also be part of the trilateral discussion alongside his Chinese and Afghan counterparts.
“The foreign ministers of the three nations are anticipated to deliberate on enhancing regional trade, improving security cooperation, and addressing the recent developments in the region, particularly following the latest Pakistan-India conflict,” the report highlighted.
In a move described as precision strikes, India conducted Operation Sindoor targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on May 7, in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in 26 fatalities.