'Need to work together for peace in region', Modi tells Imran

Following weeks of heightened tension between India and Pakistan triggered by the Pulwama terror attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday told his Pakistan counterpart Imran Khan that it was time for people of the subcontinent to work together "for a peaceful and prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence."

Khan confirmed receiving Modi's message on the eve of Pakistan's National Day.

"Received msg from PM Modi: 'I extend my greetings & best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the National Day of Pakistan. It is time that ppl of Sub-continent work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive & prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence," tweeted the former cricketer-turned-politician.

While the Pakistan National Day will be celebrated across the border on Saturday, the Pakistan High Commission here celebrated the occasion by organising events on Friday.

However, India didn't send any representative to the Pakistan High Commission for the event.

"The decision was taken after the Pakistan High Commission decided to call Hurriyat leader to the reception. In February we were very clear, any attempt by Pakistan High Commission or Pakistani leadership to engage with Hurriyat leaders will not be taken lightly," said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.

In fact, none of the separatists from the Kashmir Valley attended the programme at the Pakistan High Commission following the major crackdown on them by the government ever since the February 14 Pulwama attack which killed 40 CRPF troopers.

In its latest move on Friday, the government outlawed the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) led by Muhammad Yasin Malik, alleging that it was responsible for promoting terrorism and secessionism in the state.

The Pakistan Day is celebrated on March 23 every year to mark the Lahore Resolution.

--IANS

arm/prs