'India's call to Pakistan for violence-free atmosphere ironic'

Pakistan's top foreign policy official said on Tuesday that it was "ironic" that India was asking Pakistan to create a violence-free atmosphere while New Delhi continues to violate the ceasefire at the Line of Control (LoC) and indulges in human rights violations against helpless Kashmiris.

In a statement issued by the foreign office, Sartaj Aziz, the prime minister's advisor on national security and foreign affairs, referred to the recent articulation of Indian policy by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar as confirming Pakistan's apprehensions about Indian involvement in terrorism in Pakistan, Geo News reported.

"Pakistan is most affected by terrorism and has sacrificed thousands of lives in its counter-terrorism efforts. Terrorism is thus a common challenge, and fighting this menace requires collective efforts," Aziz said.

Responding the Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's statement, Aziz said Nawaz Sharif had a vision of improving relations with all neighbours and attended Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony in this spirit.

"The primary objective of this vision is economic development of the region," Aziz said.

About a Pakistan-India dialogue, Aziz said Pakistan has conveyed to India that it remained committed to dialogue, provided India was ready.