Normal ties with India key to security, development: Pakistan

Pakistan on Thursday reiterated that normalisation of ties with India is vital for peace and development in the region, but will take all appropriate actions necessary to protect its interests.

Foreign office spokesperson Qazi Khalilullah was responding to a question whether Islamabad has contacted the international community on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's admission of his country's role in the break-up of Pakistan, Dawn reported.

Khalilullah's statement follows Modi's telephonic conversation with Pakistani Premier Nawaz Sharif, conveying his greetings on the advent of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

The conversation, which according to the prime minister's office lasted for five minutes, was seen as significant against the backdrop of the recent verbal spat between New Delhi and Islamabad.

During the call, the Indian leader said his country wanted "good ties" with Pakistan while Sharif stressed that Islamabad and New Delhi should strive for peace by overcoming their differences.

Sharif's remarks suggested that despite rising tensions, the Pakistani government was keen to de-escalate the situation.

The Foreign Office also reiterated that normalisation of ties between New Delhi and Islamabad was vital for peace and development in the region.

"Pakistan will welcome any positive step that promotes peace and bilateral relations between the two countries," Khalilullah said.

"Pakistan on its part is committed to good neighbourly relations with all the regional countries, including India," he said.

However, he maintained that there are "serious issues" between the two neighbouring countries which need to be resolved through dialogue process.