PM Shehbaz Embarks on Key Regional Tour Amid India-Pakistan Tensions
Visit aims to strengthen alliances, counter Indian narrative, and attend global glacier summit in Tajikistan
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has embarked on a critical diplomatic mission across four key regional countries — Turkiye, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan — amid rising tensions with India following the deadly Pahalgam attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
The visit, spanning May 26–30, seeks to enhance regional cooperation, reaffirm alliances, and thank partner nations for their support during the recent standoff with India. It will also culminate in Shehbaz’s participation at the International Conference on Glaciers in Tajikistan.
First Stop: Turkiye
Shehbaz Sharif departed from Lahore on Sunday for a two-day official visit to Turkiye. Accompanying him are Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi.
The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that the premier will engage in “wide-ranging discussions” with regional leaders, covering bilateral relations, regional peace, economic cooperation, and climate change.
Backdrop: Rising India-Pakistan Tensions
The tour follows heightened tensions sparked by the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed at least 26 tourists. India immediately blamed Pakistan without presenting evidence, while Islamabad strongly denied involvement and accused New Delhi of baseless allegations and cross-border provocations, including missile strikes on Pakistani territory.
A potential large-scale conflict was narrowly avoided following what former U.S. President Donald Trump described as “urgent American intervention”.
Diplomatic Offensive: Countering the Indian Narrative
In response, Pakistan has intensified diplomatic outreach, aiming to clarify its position on the Pahalgam incident and build a coalition of support in the region.
“The Prime Minister will convey Pakistan’s deep gratitude for the support extended during the recent aggression from India,” stated the Foreign Office.
Additionally, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has been tasked to lead a parallel diplomatic mission to global capitals, representing Pakistan’s case on international platforms.
Agenda: Security, Trade, and Climate Diplomacy
During his meetings, PM Shehbaz is expected to cover:
- Regional and bilateral security cooperation
- Expansion of trade and energy partnerships
- Collaboration on transnational terrorism
- Joint response to climate change and glacier melt
The Azerbaijan visit is being closely coordinated, following a phone call between Deputy PM Ishaq Dar and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov, focusing on the “full spectrum of bilateral relations.”
Final Stop: Global Glacier Conference in Tajikistan
PM Shehbaz will conclude the tour in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, where he is scheduled to attend the International Conference on Glaciers (May 29–30). The summit will address urgent climate issues such as:
- Glacier melt in South and Central Asia
- Environmental sustainability
- Shared regional climate adaptation efforts
Given Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change, especially after the 2022 floods, this engagement highlights the country’s growing role in global environmental diplomacy.
Strategic Significance of the Tour
Analysts note that Shehbaz’s visit comes at a pivotal moment for regional diplomacy. With India’s aggressive posture, Iran’s deeper South Asia engagement, and Azerbaijan’s rising influence, the tour aims to:
- Reinforce strategic partnerships
- Counterbalance regional instability
- Elevate Pakistan’s voice on key international issues
While no major bilateral agreements have been announced, officials confirm that energy cooperation, trade route development, and regional security coordination are central to the discussions.
