Peace gesture at Russian embassy amid India-Pakistan tensions

ISLAMABAD: In a moment charged with symbolism, Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai gently placed his hand over the head of India’s senior-most diplomat in Pakistan, Geetika Srivastava, during a diplomatic gathering in Islamabad — a gesture of warmth amid the ongoing tensions between the two rival nations.

The encounter took place at the Russian Embassy, where Ambassador Albert P Khorev hosted a commemorative reception marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in the Second World War — known in Russia as the Great Patriotic War (1941–1945). The event was attended by top Pakistani leadership, including President Asif Ali Zardari, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, and other prominent figures from the military, bureaucracy, diplomatic corps and media.

In his remarks, President Zardari congratulated the Russian leadership and emphasised Pakistan’s willingness to deepen its cooperation with Moscow. He noted that Russia is already playing a constructive role in reducing India-Pakistan tensions. “Russia can help de-escalate hostilities”, he said. “A better future is only possible through dialogue and mutual understanding.”

While President Zardari and Speaker Sadiq departed shortly after the cake-cutting ceremony, others including Chairman Gilani remained for cultural performances and dinner. As the Russian ambassador led key guests to a separate seating area, Achakzai was invited to join.

According to diplomatic sources, after informal conversations with Ambassador Khorev and Chairman Gilani, Achakzai was informed by somebody that Geetika Srivastava, India’s Charge d’Affaires in Islamabad, was present at the event. On learning this, Achakzai walked over to her table, where she was dining with Sri Lanka’s deputy head of mission, his spouse, and another diplomat.

Srivastava, upon noticing Achakzai, stood up in respect and greeted him with folded hands. “Do you know who I am?”, he asked with a smile.

“Yes, of course, I know you”, she replied.

“Are you in contact with everyone here?”, he continued, to which Srivastava responded briefly that she was.

Achakzai then gently placed his hand over her head, offering a blessing and warm wishes before moving on. The act, subtle yet poignant, did not go unnoticed among the gathering. Later, speaking to this correspondent, Achakzai stated, “There should be no conflict between India and Pakistan. Not just peace, but improvement in relations is needed.”