The Indian Foreign Office has stated that it desired good neighbourly relations with Pakistan in response to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent proposals to hold discussions with neighbouring countries.
Although PM Shehbaz did not identify any countries in his statements, Indian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi stated that India likewise desired good neighbourly relations with Pakistan.
However, such relationships should be created in a free environment, devoid of any fear of violence, he stressed.
During his weekly press conference, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson stated, “We have seen reports regarding Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif’s comments.” “However, an environment free of ‘hostility’ is critical,” he says.
While speaking at the opening ceremony of the Pakistan Minerals Summit in Islamabad a few days ago, Prime Minister Shehbaz stated, “We are also ready to talk to the neighbouring countries for nation-building provided that the neighbouring countries also discuss serious issues.”
He stated that the two countries could not become key neighbours until severe concerns were resolved peacefully and meaningfully via negotiation, since conflict is no longer an option.
A considerable number of foreign dignitaries and diplomats attended, as did Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir. Some countries were pleased when Pakistan showed its desire to talk with its neighbours.
In response to a new offer of discussions between the two countries, US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller stated, “As we have been saying for a long time, the United States supports and will continue to support direct dialogue between Pakistan and India.”
For several years, diplomatic relations between the two nations have been relatively limited, with only the charge d’affaires performing the functions of high commissioners in Pakistan and India’s high commissions.
Following the Mumbai bombings in 2008, there was no tangible progress between the two countries, and relations were further strained in August 2019, when India abolished Jammu & Kashmir’s special status.
In reaction, Pakistan cut commercial ties with India and dismissed Ajay Bisaria, India’s high commissioner in Pakistan at the time. Following that, India followed suit.
