The PML-N leader expresses optimism for renewed dialogue on critical issues, including climate change

PML-N President Nawaz Sharif has voiced optimism about the possibility of a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the near future, suggesting that dialogue between the two nations could be resumed. This statement came during an interaction with Indian journalists on Thursday, who were in Pakistan to cover the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.

During the meeting, attended by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Sharif highlighted the potential for productive discussions between the two leaders. He expressed hope that they could address pressing issues facing both countries, particularly the challenges posed by climate change. Senior Indian journalist Smita Sharma, who participated in the meeting, reported Sharif’s belief in a “window of opportunity” for improved bilateral relations.

Recalling personal memories of India, Nawaz Sharif spoke fondly of his visit to Amritsar, the birthplace of his father, and mentioned the significance of fostering ties between the neighbours. His daughter, Maryam Nawaz, shared her own experiences of visiting India, including a recent trip to Kartarpur Sahib, expressing her desire for increased engagement between the two nations.

Sharma noted that the absence of negative developments following the recent visit of India’s foreign minister could signal a positive shift in relations. However, she pointed out that fundamental differences, particularly regarding terrorism and Kashmir, still pose significant challenges to dialogue.

In addition to discussing political relations, Sharif urged for the Indian cricket team to visit Pakistan for the upcoming Champions Trophy, emphasizing the potential for sports to act as a bridge between the two countries. He also reiterated the importance of collaborative efforts to tackle climate change, an issue that transcends national boundaries.

This meeting marks Nawaz Sharif’s second engagement with Indian journalists within a week, following a prior encounter with veteran journalist Barkha Dutt in Lahore. The PML-N leader’s statements indicate a cautious yet hopeful approach to rekindling dialogue with India, reflecting a desire for cooperation in addressing shared challenges.