Pakistan must completely stop violations of ceasefire along the Line of Conrol (LoC) to continue peace dialogue with India, stated Defence minister Arun Jaitley in Srinagar.
It is extremely important that Pakistan must stop violation of ceasefire along the LoC to normalise the situation between the two countries, the minister explained. The ceasefire itself is a confidence building measure before any country can proceed further for a peace dialogue, he added.
Jaitley is on a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir since Saturday, to review security measures in the state. This is Jaitley's maiden visit after he assumed charge of the ministry.
The Defence minister said that India has been trying to establish peaceful and friendly relations with all neighbours, including Pakistan but stressed that maintenance of peace and tranquility on the border is a 'pre-condition' for both India and Pakistan to have a normal relationship.
Jaitley stated that he discussed the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir with state Governor NN Vohra and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The minister also held special security review meetings with top civil, army and paramilitary officials on Sunday.
It can be recalled that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited his Pakistan counterpart Nawaz Sharif to his swearing-in ceremony in Delhi on 26 May, and held talks pertaining to key bilateral and terror issues. Modi also urged Sharif for a speedy trial into the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Even after that, the two leaders exchanged friendly communication and gifts to their respective mothers.
The Modi-Sharif meeting is seen as a positive development in the India-Pakistan's relations, which were strained following several violations of ceasefire along the LoC. Beheading of an Indian soldier by the Pakistan army is one such heinous incident, which infuriated India and stalled the third round of Indo-Pak dialogue back in January.
Our soldiers strive selflessly to maintain the sanctity of the LOC and in responding to any ceasefire violations.
— Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) June 15, 2014
Had a very productive meeting with @arunjaitley in Srinagar this afternoon. Discussed matters related to both defence & finance with him.
— Omar Abdullah (@abdullah_omar) June 14, 2014
Jaitley ruled out any political motive behind the trip, and wished peace prevails in Jammu and Kashmir. After meeting with Abdullah and the state officials, the minister said that he is going back with a sense of reasonable satisfaction, with regard to the security situation in the state.
On holding talks with separatists in Jammu and Kashmir, Jaitley pointed out that the government will hold discussions with anyone who respects the country's constitution and sovereignty.
The minister also hoped Amarnath Yatra, which will begin soon, will be as peaceful as the last elections held recently in the country.
Jaitley, who is also the Finance minister, assured of whatever assistance is required for development of Jammu and Kashmir.
