Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s recent visit to Islamabad, where he met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has raised eyebrows due to his conspicuous silence on the Kashmir issue. Despite Pakistan’s attempt to secure support from Iran on the Kashmir dispute during their joint press conference, President Raisi refrained from engaging with the topic, indicating Iran’s delicate diplomatic balancing act as it seeks to maintain cordial relations with both India and Pakistan.
President Raisi’s visit to Islamabad aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between Iran and Pakistan. However, the Pakistan PM’s effort to elicit support from Iran on the Kashmir issue was met with silence from President Raisi. This diplomatic snub underscores Iran’s cautious approach in navigating the India-Pakistan dispute, particularly as it pursues robust diplomatic and trade ties with Bharat.
During the joint press conference, PM Shehbaz Sharif attempted to link Iran’s stance on the situation in Gaza with that in Kashmir, expressing gratitude for Iran’s support for Kashmir. However, President Raisi chose not to address the topic, instead focusing on Iran’s broader support for those fighting against oppression, particularly in Palestine.
This diplomatic manoeuvre reflects Iran’s strategic imperative to maintain a neutral stance on Kashmir, given its bilateral relations with both India and Pakistan. Recent high-level exchanges between Iran and India, including discussions on issues such as the violence in Palestine, shows the complexities of Iran’s diplomatic engagements in the region.
President Raisi’s visit to Pakistan follows months of tensions between the two nations, marked by retaliatory strikes against alleged terrorist hideouts. It signifies a concerted effort by Iran and Pakistan to mend their fractured ties and promote regional stability. Additionally, President Raisi’s visit holds significance as he is the first foreign leader to visit Pakistan following the country’s controversial general elections in February.
