India’s diplomatic stance towards Pakistan was once again highlighted as it opted out of participating in both Pakistan’s National Day celebrations and an iftar dinner hosted by Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, in Islamabad.
Since 2019, India has steadfastly decided against attending Pakistan’s National Day celebrations following the Pulwama attack, responding with the Balakot strike. This decision reflects India’s firm policy of refraining from engaging with countries that support terrorism against it. Despite invitations extended by Pakistan, Indian diplomats were notably absent from both events, signaling the continuation of India’s diplomatic boycott.
Last year, there was a reported deviation from this policy when Indian diplomats reportedly attended an iftar dinner hosted by then Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. However, this year, India’s stance remained unwavering, with no participation from Indian diplomats in Dar’s interfaith iftar dinner.
The absence of Indian diplomats at these events underscores the deep-seated tensions between the two neighboring countries, exacerbated by Pakistan’s objection to India’s decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.
Despite the diplomatic rift, Pakistan proceeded with its National Day celebrations in Delhi, marking the first public event of its kind in four years. The reception, hosted by Charge d’Affaires Saad Ahmad Warraich, aimed to commemorate Pakistan’s National Day amidst strained bilateral relations.
While Pakistan continued its diplomatic gestures, India’s abstention reaffirmed its stance on cross-border terrorism and the need for a stable and peaceful region. As both nations navigate complex diplomatic waters, the underlying tensions serve as a reminder of the delicate balance of power in South Asia.
