Tehran: In a diplomatic overture, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed his willingness to engage in peace talks with India to resolve all outstanding issues between the two neighboring countries, including Kashmir, terrorism, water sharing, and trade.
Sharif’s remarks came weeks after India and Pakistan agreed to halt cross-border firing that had intensified following the Pahalgam terrorist attack and India’s retaliatory Operation Sindoor. He made the statement in Tehran during the second leg of his four-nation tour.
"We want to resolve all disputes, including the Kashmir issue and the water issue, through negotiations and are also ready to talk to our neighbour on trade and counter-terrorism,” he said. Highlighting the broader stakes, Sharif said, “Peace between Pakistan and India will not only benefit our two countries but also contribute to regional peace and prosperity.”
While extending an olive branch, Sharif also issued a stern warning: “If [India] chooses the path of aggression, we shall defend our territory… like we did a few days ago.”
Following India’s precision military strikes earlier this month, reports suggested a renewed willingness from Islamabad to engage in talks with New Delhi. However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made it clear that any dialogue with Pakistan will be limited to the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and the issue of terrorism.
China adversary, Pak ancillary problem for India: US intelThe US Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), in its 2025 worldwide threat assessment, has stated that India views China as its primary adversary, while treating Pakistan more as an ancillary security problem to be managed, despite the recent escalation of cross-border hostilities. Prepared by Lieutenant General Jeffrey Kruse, Director of the DIA, the report provides a comprehensive overview of India's current defense posture. It notes that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's defense priorities are likely to remain centered on demonstrating global leadership, countering China, and enhancing India’s military power. To counter Chinese influence, the report says India is prioritizing defense partnerships in the Indian Ocean Region through joint exercises, arms sales, training programs, and information sharing. |
