In diplomatic terminology, "Track 1" refers to official government-to-government negotiations, while "Track 2" involves informal discussions among former diplomats, retired military officials, academics, experts and civil society representatives. "Track 1.5" combines both formats, allowing serving government officials and non-governmental participants to engage in discussions without being bound by official government positions or formal agreements.
According to Foreign Office sources, the dialogue in Colombo focused on the Indus River water issue, airspace access, crisis communication mechanisms and possible frameworks to prevent future escalation between the two countries.
Sources said the Indian delegation expressed willingness to restore arrangements related to the Indus Waters Treaty and maintain the natural flow of the rivers. In return, India reportedly requested that Pakistan reopen its airspace to Indian commercial airlines.
Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian airlines following the military escalation in May 2025, forcing Indian carriers to operate on longer alternative routes.
One notable aspect of the informal dialogue was the participation of serving officials from the foreign ministries of both countries, a development considered unusual for talks of this nature.
According to sources, the Pakistani delegation included Senator Sherry Rehman and journalist Nasim Zehra. The Indian delegation comprised Ram Madhav, former Army Chief General Manoj Naravane, former diplomat Ruchi Ghanashyam and Vivek Katju.
The dialogue was held in Colombo with representatives from several South Asian countries also in attendance.
Although analysts believe it is too early to describe the meeting as a major breakthrough in Pakistan-India relations, they say such engagements could serve as an important confidence-building measure and lay the groundwork for future diplomatic progress at a time when formal bilateral talks remain largely suspended.
