Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has once again said that Pakistan is open to wide-ranging talks with India. He stressed that the talks should cover key issues like Kashmir and terrorism, but only if India takes part with genuine intent. Sharif made these remarks during the Pakistan-Turkiye-Azerbaijan Trilateral Summit in Lachin, Azerbaijan.
Push for Honest Dialogue
Speaking at the summit, PM Sharif talked about Pakistan’s ongoing efforts for peace in the region. He repeated Pakistan’s willingness to discuss all issues with India at the table, as long as India shows real cooperation and goodwill. He said, “Pakistan always wants peace in the region and is willing to discuss all the bilateral issues with India at the negotiation table if India shows sincerity of purpose and cooperation.”
Sharif also pointed out how terrorism has affected Pakistan, sharing that the country has lost 90,000 lives and suffered $150 billion in economic damage over the years.
India’s Response
India has responded by sticking to its position that talks can only happen if Pakistan takes clear steps against terrorism. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said future discussions would focus only on terrorism and the return of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK).
