The Chao Track Strategic Dialogue forms the foundation of this Track II initiative. It has acted as a vital platform consistently available to interlocutors from either side in times of crisis. On such occasions, when any form of direct engagement between the two governments becomes temporarily impossible, participants from either side have found The Chao Track to be a useful platform to read each other’s red-lines, assess the veracity of publicly-uttered political comments, and understand the role of domestic politics in the bilateral relationship. When the two governments refuse to engage with each other, especially during times of crisis, the Chao Track attempts to keep a channel of communication open between the strategic communities of the two countries.

In addition to providing a platform for engagement, the process has also helped in creating a repository of ideas and influencers that can step up to strengthen bilateral relations during periods of relative calm. Partners and participants share conclusions and recommendations on a range of issues discussed during the dialogue with their respective governments, from crisis management and trade ties to visa liberalization and regional stability efforts. The process also carries out assessment of changing national policies and priorities that impact bilateral relations.