Pakistan ready to hold unconditional talks with India: Sharif

The Pakistan PM's statement came on the sidelines of Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in the Maltese capital

Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has said that his country is ready for bilateral talks with India as it wants to maintain friendly relations with all its neighbours.

According to The News International, Sharif's statement came on the sidelines of Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in the Maltese capital.

Sharif and his British counterpart David Cameron agreed to continue close collaboration in diverse fields, particularly trade, investment and security. They expressed long-term commitment to work together for greater security and prosperity of their countries.

Sharif said Pakistan condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and was deeply saddened by the recent terrorist attacks in Paris. He said Pakistan itself being a victim of terrorism could feel the pain of the French people.

This was the third time the two Prime Ministers met during the current year, with earlier meetings taking place in April and September respectively.

PM's Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz, Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi, Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry and Pakistan's Ambassador in Malta resident in Tunisia Zaheer Pervaiz Khan were present.