Indo-Pak leaders meet in Dhaka, first since armed conflict in May

DHAKA: Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar met Pakistan’s National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq in Dhaka, marking the first high-level face-to-face interaction between leaders of India and Pakistan since the armed conflict in May.

The brief but notable meeting took place at the residence of former Bangladeshi prime minister Khaleda Zia, on the sidelines of her funeral-related events. According to sources present, the Indian foreign minister personally walked up to Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, shook his hand and exchanged greetings. Speaker Ayaz Sadiq responded warmly, and both leaders inquired about each other’s well-being during a short conversation.

Pleasantries and welcome remarks were exchanged, with the interaction drawing attention due to its timing and symbolism amid strained bilateral relations following the recent military escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

While no formal talks were held and the exchange remained brief, the encounter is being viewed as a rare moment of direct engagement between Indian and Pakistani leadership at a senior level after months of heightened tensions.

The meeting took place in the presence of international dignitaries attending events linked to the passing of former Bangladeshi prime minister Khaleda Zia, providing a neutral setting for the interaction.

Observers note that although informal, the meeting underscores the importance of diplomatic channels and dialogue, even during periods of regional strain.