Ready to talk with India because war is no more an option, says PM

Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif showed willingness to work with neighbouring India, stressing that Pakistan has “nothing against anyone”

The prime minister said while addressing the inaugural session of the Pakistan Minerals Summit in Islamabad. “We are prepared to talk with everyone, even with our neighbour, provided that the neighbour is serious to talk serious matters on the table because war is no more an option,” he said.

He mentioned that the country has fought three wars with India in the last 75 years, which only resulted in increased poverty, unemployment, and lack of resources to finance education, health, and well-being of the people. He stressed that this is not the way to adopt, but to fight through economic competition in the region.

“War is not an option due to the catastrophic consequences of a nuclear flashpoint. He stressed the importance of both Pakistan and India understanding and addressing their serious issues through peaceful discussions to become normal neighbors. Pakistan seeks to build strong and trustworthy relationships with both the Americans and China, working together for development,” the premier maintained.

He also emphasised working with the Americans for development in Pakistan, similar to its work with China. “We really want to have the best of relations with them like we used to have in the past, on the basis of mutual respect and trust, and not trying to deceive each other,” he added.

He added that instead, the two nations should try to use available opportunities for the good of both the countries and the people.

براہِ راست – اسلام آباد: وزیرِ اعظم شہباز شریف کا منرل سمٹ کی تقریب سے خطاب https://t.co/Ff2Bh8hEZV

— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) August 1, 2023

The summit was attended by several national and foreign dignitaries, including the Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir. During the occasion, State Minister for Petroleum Dr Musadik Malik invited foreign investors to invest in different sectors of Pakistan, particularly in the minerals and mining sector.