ISLAMABAD - Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Monday greeted his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, on India’s Republic Day, stressing the need of making unified efforts to bring progress and prosperity to the region.
In a letter addressed to the Indian prime minister, Premier Sharif greeted him and the Indian nation on behalf of the people of Pakistan, reiterating his government’s stance to have friendship with India based on equality, mutual respect and trust.
Nawaz underlined the need for taking joint concrete measures for the regional peace and prosperity, adding Pakistan and India should work together to alleviate poverty from both the countries.
In his message, Nawaz Sharif wished for the development and prosperity of Indian people. The prime minister said Pakistan wanted friendly and cordial ties with India.
He asserted Pakistan was committed to building its relations with India to safeguard mutual interest and sovereignty.
He said the cherished goal of peaceful and prosperous South Asia could be achieved by joint efforts in the interest of the people of the region.
Monitoring adds: Indian High Commissioner TCA Raghavan on Monday said that negotiations with Pakistan were not possible in a climate of terrorism, according to a media report.
He stated that the negotiations did not look plausible until the problems that were highlighted by India were addressed and resolved.
He expressed these views while talking to the media.
The Indian envoy also said that the United Nations (UN) banned Jamat-ud-Dawa in 2008, but instead the activities of Hafiz Saeed till date are in front of everyone.
Raghavan stated that good relations between India and the US, with joint co-operation in defence between the two countries, were not against any country in the region.