Sharif Tours Region After Indo-Pakistan Kashmir Crisis

A deadly escalation between India and Pakistan, triggered by a militant attack in Kashmir, led to around 70 deaths before a US-brokered ceasefire on May 10. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif then began a diplomatic tour of Turkey, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan to thank allies for their support. In Istanbul, Sharif and Turkish President Erdogan discussed expanding defense cooperation, intelligence sharing, and technology, while Erdogan reaffirmed solidarity with Pakistan and urged restraint from both sides. Sharif expressed willingness for peace talks with India on all disputes, including Kashmir and water issues, but India maintained talks would only address Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and an end to cross-border terrorism. Pakistan’s military leadership, including Army Chief Asim Munir, played a prominent role in these diplomatic efforts, highlighting the military’s influence on foreign policy. Turkey’s open support for Pakistan and alleged military cooperation has further strained Ankara’s relations with India.