New Delhi: India has said it “desires normal neighbourly relations with all countries, including Pakistan” even as it hit out at Islamabad for “misusing” the UN platform by raising the issue of Jammu and Kashmir during a UNSC debate on ‘Maintenance of International Peace and Security Through Preventive Diplomacy’.
‘Want normal ties’
India wants normal neighbourly relations with all countries, including Pakistan, and is committed to addressing outstanding issues, if any, bilaterally and peacefully . — Kajal Bhat, Legal adviser at India’s permanent mission to the UN
“India wants normal neighbourly relations with all countries, including Pakistan, and is committed to addressing outstanding issues, if any, bilaterally and peacefully in accordance with the Simla Agreement and the Lahore declaration,” said Kajal Bhat, Legal Adviser at India’s Permanent Mission to the UN.
“However, any meaningful dialogue can be held only in an atmosphere free of terror, hostility and violence. The onus is on Pakistan to create such a conducive atmosphere. Till then, India will continue to take firm and decisive steps to respond to cross-border terrorism,” said Bhat. She said the attempt to raise J&K was Pakistan’s attempt to divert world attention from “the sad state of his country, where terrorists enjoy a free pass while the lives of ordinary people are turned upside down”.