ISLAMABAD: National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has disclosed details of his recent interaction with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar in Dhaka, stating that the Indian side initiated high-level contact with Pakistan after the May war. He shared the account during the Geo News programme Aaj Shahzaib Khanzada Kay Sath, where he discussed the political significance of the encounter.
Sadiq said he attended the funeral prayer of former Bangladeshi prime minister Khaleda Zia as Pakistan’s representative. Meanwhile, delegations from Pakistan, the Maldives, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladeshi officials were present in a parliamentary waiting room when Jaishankar entered with his delegation.
Jaishankar Approaches Pakistani Speaker
According to Sadiq, Jaishankar greeted other delegations briefly but then deliberately approached him and initiated a handshake. At the time, Sadiq was speaking with Pakistan’s high commissioner to Bangladesh. He recalled that Jaishankar introduced himself and recognised him, saying there was no need for further introduction.
Sadiq noted that cameras followed the Indian minister, indicating full awareness that the interaction would attract media attention. He added that Jaishankar understood the political optics of the moment and acted accordingly. Moreover, Sadiq sensed that all eyes in the room focused on the exchange, highlighting its diplomatic importance.
Warm Reception in Bangladesh
During the programme, Sadiq also described the enthusiastic reception he received in Bangladesh. He said crowds chanted slogans of “Pakistan Zindabad” and “I Love Pakistan” during his visit. Additionally, people waved and gathered along the route as his vehicle, displaying the Pakistani flag, traveled to the funeral venue.
Despite security advice to keep the car windows closed, Sadiq lowered one window. As a result, people rushed forward to take pictures and shake hands. He said police attempted to control the crowd, but people continued to approach, eager to greet Pakistan’s representative. He described the overall reception as remarkably enthusiastic.
