Jaishankar Emphasizes India’s Desire for Terrorism-Free Relations with Pakistan

New Delhi, 13th December 2024: India seeks positive relations with Pakistan, free from terrorism, but if Pakistan does not demonstrate a change in its past actions, it will affect bilateral ties, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated in the Lok Sabha on Friday.

The minister highlighted that trade relations were disrupted following certain decisions made by Pakistan in 2019.

“We wish to have good relations with Pakistan, like we do with any other neighbour. However, we expect these relations to be free of terrorism,” Jaishankar remarked during the Question Hour.

He emphasized that this stance has been consistent with the Indian government.

“We have made it clear that it is up to Pakistan to demonstrate a change in its past behaviour. If it does not, it will have consequences for our relations. The responsibility is with Pakistan,” Jaishankar added.

India’s trade ties with Pakistan were severed after the government decided to revoke Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir.