Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expresses a wish for friendly relations with India and a resolution to the Kashmir issue.

As per a media source on Friday, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has voiced his desire for peaceful relations with India based on the values of “fair, justice, and mutual respect,” as well as the resolution of the Kashmir dispute.

Sharif also encouraged the international community to play a “facilitative role” in ensuring long-term peace and stability in South Asia, despite a thaw in bilateral relations due to the Kashmir dispute and cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan to the statement.

Sharif voiced his views during a meeting with the recently appointed Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Neil Hawkins, on Thursday, according to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

“Pakistan seeks peaceful relations with India based on equity, justice, and mutual respect.” In this context, “a just and amicable solution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in conformity with relevant UNSC resolutions and the demands of the Kashmiri people was essential,” Sharif remarked.

“The international community must take a facilitative role in this respect, as it is critical for long-term peace and stability in South Asia,” he added.

India has often expressed its wish for normal neighborly relations with Islamabad in an atmosphere free of terror, hatred, and violence. India has stated that Pakistan is responsible for establishing an environment devoid of terror and hate.

The bilateral relationship worsened further when India announced the withdrawal of Jammu and Kashmir’s special powers in August 2019 and the division of the state into two union territories.

India has consistently told Pakistan that Jammu and Kashmir “was, is, and shall forever” part of India. It also encouraged Pakistan to accept reality and refrain from spreading anti-India propaganda.