Pakistan's Former PM Nawaz Sharif Seeks Progress in Ties with India

Pakistan's former prime minister, Nawaz Sharif, has reached out to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing their relationship as a healthy one that should not be held captive by the past. Sharif appreciated Modi's decision to visit him in 2015, calling it a "chota" (small) gesture. He also slammed former Pakistan PM Imran Khan for his personal attacks against Modi and sought progress in ties, saying that both countries should focus on moving forward.

Key Takeaways:

• Nawaz Sharif described his relationship with PM Modi as a healthy one that should not be held captive by the past.
• Sharif appreciated Modi's decision to visit him in 2015, calling it a "chota" (small) gesture.
• He slammed former Pakistan PM Imran Khan for his personal attacks against Modi, saying that such language destroys a healthy relationship.
• Sharif sought progress in ties, saying that both countries should focus on moving forward and not be held back by past grievances.
• He called upon both sides to look ahead and not be held back by the past, despite not making any specific commitment on resuming trade ties or reappointing high commissioner.
• Sharif also backed Saarc, trade, and cricket ties with India, saying that neither country gains anything by not allowing their teams to play each other.

Statistics:

• Sharif stated that goods travel from Amritsar to Lahore through Dubai, implying that the trade route is inefficient.
• He noted that what should take two hours takes two weeks, indicating the inefficiency of the current trade route.
• No specific numbers or statistics were mentioned regarding trade, trade volume, or other economic indicators.

Sources:

• "Former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif seeks progress in ties with India" (The Times of India)
• "Sharif PDfoming current visit will help 'cheezein niklengi (things will emerge)' - The Times of India"