Saudi crown prince, Modi agree on need to restart Pak-India dialogue

Two countries emphasise on regional stability, sound neighbouring relations

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed on the need for creation of conditions necessary to resume comprehensive dialogue between Pakistan and India, said a joint statement issued during the crown prince's visit to India.

"The two sides stressed the importance of regional stability and good neighbouring relations. His Royal Highness appreciated consistent efforts made by Prime Minister Modi since May 2014 including Prime Minister’s personal initiatives to have friendly relations with Pakistan. In this context, both sides agreed on the need for creation of conditions necessary for the resumption of the comprehensive dialogue between India and Pakistan."



The statement issued by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday further outlined that Saudi Arabia and India emphasised on regional stability and sound relations with neighbours.

The joint statement further said that Prince Mohammad appreciated consistent efforts made by PM Modi since May 2014, including personal initiatives, to establish friendly relations with Pakistan.



In an interview with India's NDTV, Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir lauded Pakistan’s efforts in the war against terror and said Islamabad had lost thousands of soldiers and civilians in the fight against terrorist outfits in the tribal areas.

Referring to the escalation between Pakistan and India following the suicide car bombing in occupied Kashmir’s Pulwama district, the foreign minister stressed the need for ‘de-escalation’ between the two countries and added that there should be discussions to resolve issues in a way that protects the lives of innocent.

The Saudi foreign minister maintained that every country in the world should be doing everything they can to go after terrorists.