Pakistan Seeks Dialogue with India, Refrains from Congratulating PM Modi on Election Victory
Islamabad, 8th June 2024: Today, Pakistan expressed its aspiration for amicable and cooperative relations with all its neighbouring countries, including India, emphasizing a preference for resolving disputes through dialogue. The statement was made by Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, the spokesperson for the Foreign Office, a day before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third consecutive term oath-taking ceremony.
Following the victory of the National Democratic Alliance, led by PM Modi, securing 293 seats in the Lok Sabha elections, the coalition is poised to form the government for a historic third term.
In response to inquiries regarding Pakistan’s congratulations to PM Modi on his electoral success, Baloch stated that it is within the purview of Indian citizens to determine their leadership, refraining from comment on the electoral process. She emphasized that since the new government has not been officially inaugurated, it would be premature to extend congratulations to the Indian Prime Minister.
Regarding bilateral relations with India, Baloch reiterated Pakistan’s consistent stance of seeking cooperative ties with all neighbors, including India, through constructive dialogue. She emphasized Pakistan’s advocacy for resolving all outstanding issues, including the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir, through dialogue and engagement.
India has consistently expressed its desire for cordial relations with Pakistan while emphasizing the need for Islamabad to create an environment free of terrorism and hostility for meaningful engagement.
Earlier this year, Foreign Affairs Minister S Jaishankar underscored that while India has never closed the doors for dialogue with Pakistan, the issue of terrorism must remain central to any conversation. He emphasized that the existence of terrorist camps in Pakistan should be the focal point of discussions.
