Pakistan to potentially skip peace summit in Switzerland

Over two years after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Pakistan faces another diplomatic challenge. Pakistan is one of the countries of the so-called Global South invited to the peace summit in Ukraine, which will be held in Switzerland on June 15 and 16.

Islamabad has received its first invitation to such an international conference dedicated to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Pakistan's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, confirmed last week that Pakistan had been invited to the peace summit. However, she added that the invitation was under consideration.

Nevertheless, sources indicated that Pakistan is likely to skip the peace summit as part of its efforts to maintain "neutrality." They said that since Russia was not invited to the summit, it might not be beneficial. However, they mentioned that the final decision has not yet been made.

Peace summit in Switzerland

On June 15 and 16, the historic Global Peace Summit, organized by Ukraine and Switzerland, will take place at the Swiss resort of Bürgenstock. Leaders from dozens of countries are expected to participate, coming together to find ways to achieve sustainable peace in Ukraine and beyond.

Russia has not received an invitation to this inaugural summit. Ukrainian authorities have made it clear that Russia's presence at this stage could hinder constructive dialogue and the search for solutions.

However, this does not mean that Russia is being completely ignored. It is planned to invite Russia to a second peace summit if it demonstrates a genuine willingness to end the war on terms to be discussed and agreed upon during the first summit.

It is officially known that China and Brazil will skip the peace summit. They explained their refusal to participate due to Russia's absence from the event.

Additionally, according to media reports, Saudi Arabia may also decline to attend the peace summit.