Pakistan PM Sharif Faces Online Trolling After SCO Summit Handshake Moments

At the 25th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attracted widespread online criticism after a video showed him hastily rushing to shake hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin as he walked alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping. Social media users mocked Sharif’s apparent eagerness and labeled his behavior as desperate and attention-seeking, noting that Xi Jinping appeared to ignore Sharif's approach. This viral incident revived memories of a previous diplomatic gaffe by Sharif at the 2022 SCO meeting, where he struggled with a translation headset, further fueling ridicule. Meanwhile, other leaders such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in substantive discussions, including talks with Xi Jinping aimed at restoring bilateral ties and addressing terrorism concerns. The SCO summit focused on regional security and cooperation, with criticism expected regarding cross-border terrorism originating from Pakistan. These events highlight the diplomatic challenges faced by Sharif amidst significant geopolitical discussions among major Asian powers.