Don’t speak against India, Sharif tells Ministers

Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has asked his Ministers and senior officials not to give anti-India statements that could damage the peace process between the two countries, an official said.

“There will be statements only that encourage the dialogue process rather than digging out the past. The PM has asked the close aides and cabinet members to promote peace,” The Nation quoted an official as saying.

He said Mr. Sharif was optimistic about better ties with India, which would benefit the whole region.

The official said Mr. Sharif was annoyed by statements from India that New Delhi only wanted to discuss Pakistan occupied Kashmir in talks, but understands this is not Indian government’s policy.

Mr. Sharif, the official said, wanted to give top priority to Kashmir, terrorism and trade when the two sides discuss peace.

‘PM and military leadership on same page’

Another official said the Pakistan Prime Minister and the military leadership were on the same page to make peace with India.

“There is no difference of opinion and both agree that there should be no compromise on the stated position on key issues,” he added.

It is expected that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mr. Sharif will meet in Switzerland in January. The two leaders will to attend the 46th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos-Klosters.