In a significant diplomatic statement, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed his willingness to engage in a “meaningful dialogue” with India to resolve all outstanding issues, including Jammu and Kashmir, water, trade, and terrorism. His remarks were made during a phone conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Tuesday.
According to Radio Pakistan, Sharif reiterated that Pakistan is ready for talks despite heightened tensions following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed 26 lives. The incident had sharply escalated tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, prompting India to suspend the Indus Water Treaty and halt all trade with Pakistan.
India further responded with “Operation Sindoor” on May 7, targeting terror infrastructure across the Line of Control. The strikes led to four days of military exchanges, which concluded on May 10 with a tacit understanding to pause further escalation.
Sharif also extended his gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its steadfast support during the recent India-Pakistan standoff. His call for dialogue follows earlier similar statements made during his visits to Iran and Azerbaijan, where he highlighted Pakistan’s openness to peace talks on issues like Kashmir and cross-border terrorism.
However, India has firmly maintained its position that no formal dialogue will be possible unless Pakistan ceases its support for cross-border terrorism. As External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted, “Terror and talks cannot go together, terror and trade cannot go together, and water and blood cannot flow together,” quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Meanwhile, the call also focused on West Asia’s tensions, particularly the Iran-Israel conflict. Sharif conveyed Pakistan’s support for immediate de-escalation and a peaceful diplomatic resolution. The Saudi Crown Prince appreciated Pakistan’s solidarity and acknowledged its constructive role in promoting peace in the region.
While Sharif’s outreach signals a diplomatic opening, India’s position on terrorism remains a major roadblock to resuming bilateral talks.
