Peace on LoC pre-condition for normal ties with Pakistan: India

Against the backdrop of heavy shelling on the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, India today reminded Pakistan that maintenance of peace and tranquility on the border is a "pre-condition" for having a normal relationship between the two countries.

Foreign Secretary Sujatha Singh said it has been India's endeavour to establish peaceful and friendly relations with all neighbours, including Pakistan. "On firing, I will like to reiterate that peace and tranquility on the border is of the highest importance in establishing the pre-condition for such peaceful and normal relationship," she told reporters. "Maintenance of peace and tranquility on LoC is one of the most important CBMs between India and Pakistan. That remains and will remain the case," she said.

Singh was referred to the heavy shelling by Pakistani troops in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir and asked where it leaves the process of building relations with the neighbour through 'sari' and 'letter' diplomacy, a reference to exchange of letters between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his counterpart Nawaz Sharif. "Our policy towards neighbours has always been to work towards peaceful and cordial relationship. So 'sari' and letter diplomacy helps that," she said.

The Foreign Secretary was also asked whether India and Pakistan had established contact as was decided during meeting between Modi and Sharif here last month. "We will, by and by," she replied.