ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Wednesday that Saudi Arabia or the United Arab Emirates could serve as potential venues for any future dialogue between Pakistan and India, with the United States playing a pivotal role in facilitating the talks.
Speaking to senior journalists in Islamabad, the prime minister confirmed that Pakistan’s National Security Adviser, who also serves as Director General of the ISI, would represent the country in such negotiations.
Tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors flared on April 22 after India accused Pakistan of orchestrating an attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir’s (IIOJK) tourist hub, Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives.
The situation escalated further on May 7 when missile strikes struck six cities across Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, killing dozens of civilians and destroying a mosque. In response, Pakistan’s armed forces shot down multiple Indian warplanes, including three Rafale jets.
On May 10, India launched additional missile attacks targeting Pakistani airbases, prompting Pakistan to respond with Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, which inflicted significant damage on Indian military infrastructure, including missile depots and airbases.
During his media interaction, PM Shehbaz emphasized that any future talks must be mediated by key international stakeholders, particularly the U.S., Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. He stressed the need for a comprehensive agenda covering core disputes including Kashmir, water resources, trade, and terrorism.
Commenting on the military conflict, the prime minister praised the bravery of Pakistan’s armed forces and revealed that both countries’ Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) had agreed to return to pre-conflict positions—though no timeline has yet been established.
He also reiterated Pakistan’s call for an international investigation into the Pahalgam incident. Referring to his speech at Kakul Military Academy, he said Islamabad’s proposal for a neutral probe was well-received by the global community.
