In response to recent comments by Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif about initiating dialogues with neighbouring countries, India’s Foreign Office has expressed its interest in fostering good relations with Pakistan, provided they are free from any threat of violence. Although PM Sharif did not explicitly name any country, Indian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi emphasized that such relations must develop peacefully.
At the Pakistan Minerals Summit in Islamabad, PM Sharif had earlier noted that the readiness to converse with neighbouring nations hinges on these countries’ willingness to address critical issues. He stressed that peaceful and meaningful dialogue is essential for solving significant issues and fostering better bilateral ties, rejecting war as an option.
This development was met with appreciation by certain countries, including the United States, which has always encouraged direct dialogues between Pakistan and India. The level of diplomatic relations between the two nations has been minimal over recent years, particularly after the 2008 Mumbai attacks and India’s 2019 revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. This move resulted in Pakistan severing trade relations with India and expelling its high commissioner, which India responded in kind.
