Pakistan will probably skip the Ukraine Peace Summit in Switzerland on June 15 and 16 as part of its efforts to maintain “neutrality,” according to Pakistan Today.
The conference organiser invited the countries of the so-called Global South, including Pakistan. However, Russia, a participant in the war in Ukraine, did not receive an invitation.
Delegations from 50 countries are expected to attend the upcoming Ukrainian Peace Summit in Switzerland. The Swiss government is keen to ensure a large turnout, including from the Global South.
At the weekly briefing last week, Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch confirmed that Pakistan had been invited to the summit. Baloch stated that the invitation was under consideration.
However, the absence of Russia, a key player in the conflict, put Pakistan in a delicate position, leaving its participation in doubt, the diplomat added. Baloch also stated that Pakistan was likely to skip the peace summit as part of its efforts to maintain “neutrality.”
Pakistani Balancing Act
Pakistan maintains a policy of neutrality throughout the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The country refuses to condemn Moscow and also offers humanitarian aid to Ukraine. This stance reflects Pakistan’s desire to maintain good relations with both Russia and Ukraine’s allies.
Kyiv’s allies have reportedly pressured Islamabad to take a more pro-Ukrainian stance. However, Russia’s absence at the summit further complicates the situation.
Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan’s visit to Moscow during the war, which contributed to his resignation, emphasised the country’s delicate in-between position.
The summit organizers, led by the Swiss government, are actively seeking the support of countries from the Global South to facilitate a broader dialogue on peace in Ukraine.
Several countries from South America, Africa, and the Middle East confirmed their participation. However, the final list of participants is likely to change until the last minute.
While the summit is meant to pave the way for a peace process, its effectiveness remains unclear without Russia’s participation. Pakistan’s decision to attend is likely to depend on a combination of factors, from its commitment to neutrality to pressure from Western nations and China’s stance.
