ISLAMABAD: Holding a bilateral discussion, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Adviser to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz on Wednesday “condemned” terrorism and “resolved” to cooperate to eliminate it.
They acknowledged the successful talks on terrorism and security-related issues in Bangkok by the NSAs of both the countries, and decided that the NSAs would continue to address all issues connected to terrorism.
However, Indian was assured by Pakistan of the steps being taken to expedite the early conclusion of the Mumbai trial.
Both sides, accordingly, agreed to a “Comprehensive” Bilateral Dialogue, and directed the Foreign Secretaries of their respective countries to work out the modalities and schedule of the meetings.
Under the dialogue, both the nations agreed to discuss peace and security, Confidence Building Measures (CBMs), Jammu and Kashmir, Siachen, Sir Creek, Wullar Barrage/Tulbul Navigation Project, economic and commercial cooperation, counterterrorism, narcotics control and humanitarian issues, people to people exchanges and religious tourism.
Earlier, addressing a joint press conference with Sartaj Aziz, Swaraj said, “We have decided to start a fresh and call the commencement of dialogue as comprehensive bilateral dialogue. It was earlier known as ‘composite’ dialogue, which later came to be known as ‘resumed’ dialogue.”