Symbolic Handshake Between Indian, Pakistani Officials Raises Hopes for Thawing Relations
Dhaka, Bangladesh – January 12, 2026 – A brief handshake between India’s Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Pakistan’s Speaker of the National Assembly Ayaz Sadiq at the funeral of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khaleda Zia last month has ignited speculation about potential de-escalation in Indo-Pakistani tensions. The encounter, the first high-level contact since a military standoff in May 2025, marks a shift from New Delhi’s hardline stance against social greetings with Pakistani officials.
Background of the Handshake
The handshake occurred at the funeral in Dhaka, where Jaishankar and Sadiq exchanged pleasantries. While routine at international events, this informal interaction stood out amid ongoing tensions stemming from the four-day military conflict in May 2025, which escalated from cross-border airstrikes to a broader standoff. Pakistan’s National Assembly Secretariat confirmed the exchange, noting Jaishankar personally approached Sadiq and introduced himself.
Historical Context and Key Facts
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Pahalgam Terror Attack | April 22, 2025 | Militants killed 26 people; India blamed Pakistan, leading to suspension of Indus Waters Treaty and border closures. |
| Operation Sindoor | May 2025 | India launched military strikes along the Line of Control; US President Trump intervened for ceasefire. |
| Handshake at Funeral | December 2025 | Jaishankar and Sadiq shook hands at Khaleda Zia’s funeral; first high-level contact since May 2025. |
| Prisoner and Nuclear Site Lists Exchange | December 2025 | India and Pakistan resumed a three-decade-old practice, seen as a small step toward normalization. |
Diplomatic Implications
Symbolism in diplomacy is crucial, and this gesture echoes a 2002 handshake between Pakistan’s President Pervez Musharraf and India’s Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, which helped open channels after the 2001 parliament attack. Kashmir remains a core dispute, with India controlling 55 percent, Pakistan 30 percent, and China 15 percent. Experts suggest the handshake may signal back-channel efforts to lower tensions, possibly as a message to Bangladesh, which has drifted closer to Pakistan. However, analysts note that India’s ruling BJP party may use such gestures strategically for electoral gains, as relations are unlikely to improve long-term without addressing terrorism concerns.
Reactions and Future Outlook
Indian media amplified the event, with some viewing it as Pakistan overemphasizing a “courtesy handshake.” Jaishankar later criticized terrorism and referred to Pakistan as a “bad neighbor.” Pakistani officials welcomed it as a sign of reconciliation. Tensions remain high, with risks of nuclear escalation if conflicts resume. Former Pakistani ambassador Masood Khan argued the handshake was deliberate, not accidental. While cautious optimism exists, resuming talks could help de-escalate regional issues, where miscalculation is the greatest threat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the significance of the handshake?
It represented the first high-level contact since the May 2025 standoff, potentially indicating New Delhi’s willingness to reconsider its rigid stance against interactions with Pakistani officials.
Has this led to any immediate changes?
Beyond the exchange of prisoner and nuclear site lists, no major diplomatic shifts have occurred, but it has fueled speculation about back-channel talks.
What are the main obstacles to improved relations?
The unresolved Kashmir dispute, allegations of terrorism support, and geopolitical shifts, such as Pakistan’s closer ties with Saudi Arabia and China, continue to hinder progress.