Army fully supports PTI govt's decision to reach out to India: Fawad Chaudhry

Diplomatic overtures enjoy full military backing, minister says

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry on Friday said the military is supportive of the PTI government’s overtures for restoration of talks with New Delhi.

“Pakistan Army, Pakistan’s government and Pakistani people desire peace with India,” the information said while giving an interview to BBC Urdu.

“Pakistan wants to start dialogue with India to resolve all outstanding disputes but we have yet to receive a positive response from the Indian side,” he added



The minister said Pakistan has decided to open Kartarpur border crossing to facilitate Sikh devotees in their travel to Guru Nanak’s shrine without a visa.

Dismissing claims that Pakistan's political and military leadership have different narratives, Chaudhry said, “All state institutions are united on the country’s approach towards foreign policy.”

The minister told the British broadcaster that the new government was yet to receive a positive response from New Delhi on that account.

The gurdwara, one of the holiest places for Sikhs, marks the spot where Sikhism founder Guru Nanak Dev Ji was believed to have breathed his last.

Chaudhry said a mechanism had been formulated on opening the border crossing for pilgrims. “It will be introduced soon.”



He said the Indian prime minister’s pugnacious anti-Pakistan rhetoric had left it mired in a predicament. “Electoral constraints inhibit the Bharatiya Janata Party from extending a hand of friendship. The party is scared of losing voters.”

Chaudhry said a sea change had been witnessed in Pakistan’s India policy. He said all stakeholders were on the same page in this regard (now).

“Earlier, the West used to complain of dual centres of power in Pakistan. This exists no more.”