📷 Image Credits: DAWN.com
Pakistan has declined Switzerland’s invitation to the Ukraine Peace Summit due to scheduling conflicts and other considerations. Despite the invite to 160 countries, only about 90 are attending, with notable absences including China and several important countries from the Global South. The summit aims to gather international support for Ukraine’s vision of peace, detailed in President Zelensky’s ten-point peace formula.
Pakistan’s decision to skip the summit is seen as a diplomatic move to maintain neutrality, especially in the absence of Russia’s participation. The country has historically had good relations with Ukraine and has purchased weapons systems from them but has also been strengthening ties with Russia in recent years.
The upcoming summit presents a dilemma for Pakistan, with experts divided on the decision to attend. While some argue that Pakistan has strong defense relations with Ukraine and needs to participate, others caution that the move might be influenced by China’s boycott and Russia’s absence.
Pakistan’s stance of neutrality in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine is crucial to its strategic partnerships. The country has cultivated ties with both Ukraine and Russia over the years, making the decision on summit participation complex.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding the summit’s outcomes, Pakistan’s eventual decision on attendance will impact its relations with key global players. The summit not only serves as a platform for peace discussions but also presents an opportunity for Pakistan to signal its commitment to de-escalating global conflicts while maintaining its diplomatic balance.
