Both agreed to give peace another chance as the PMs of the two countries met for the first time with an avowed intention to sort out all issues through a renewed process of dialogue between the two countries at various levels – political, diplomatic, defence and commerce – without delay. But, all that will be possible only after peace returns at LoC, the PM asserted.
Briefing the media from both India and Pakistan, India’s national security advisor Shivshankar Menon said the prime minister also called for action from Pakistan to punish the perpetrators of Mumbai attack, to which Nawaz Sharif said that the judicial commission was expected to give a report soon since it was now equipped with deposition and evidence it collected from India.
Menon said the DGMOs from both sides had been tasked to ensure ceasefire and peace along LoC by evolving a concrete mechanism to restore harmony. The reference to the acts of terrorism from across the LoC occupied the centre-stage in the hour-long discussion between the two PMs. India also raised concern over Pakistani activities at Siachen and Sir Creek, expressing its clear desire to improve relations. Singh said India and Pakistan must live like good friends for their economic progress and development. ‘You can choose your friends, but not your neighbours,’ said Singh.
The issue of terrorism and border killings controlled the atmosphere of the meeting. Shariff promised to work together with India to tackle the problem and move forward. ‘Let us pick up the thread from where it was left in 1999,’ said Nawaz Sharif.