Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif has indicated that Saudi Arabia could be a ‘neutral’ location for negotiations with India. But Indian PM Narendra Modi has made it clear that there would be no such engagement at all. India has signaled that there will be limited future talks with Pakistan, but only on terrorism issues and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
This tough line has been taken after a recent Kashmir terror strike and in the midst of international gossip about potential peace talks.
Pakistan Suggests Saudi as Middle Ground
PM Shehbaz Sharif has excluded China as a host but indicated Saudi Arabia could be used as the venue for any possible dialogue with India, Pakistan’s Dawn newspaper reported. He enumerated Kashmir, terrorism, water, and commerce as issues that need to be resolved.
Pakistan’s ex-foreign minister, Bilawal Bhutto, seconded Sharif’s view. Bhutto emphasized the requirement for talks in order to address chronic issues such as Kashmir, terrorism, and water, stating that this would restore peace to South Asia.
India Rejects All Type of Talks
India is, however, firm. Govt sources have rejected US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s claims that India and Pakistan can hold negotiations at a neutral site. PM Modi has reaffirmed that “terror and talks can’t go hand in hand.” In his live address on May 12 during Operation Sindoor, he stated, “Water and blood can’t flow together.”
India’s policy towards cross-border terrorism is one of zero tolerance. It has also embarked on a diplomatic offensive to unmask Pakistan’s terror connections. A multi-party delegation is visiting 32 nations and the European Union to project Pakistan-backed terrorism.
Dialogue Only on Terror and PoK
India’s government line is unequivocal: no negotiations before Pakistan desists from all acts of terror. Talks if and when they happen will be only about ending terrorism and solving the problem of PoK. Issues such as trade and Kashmir will not be discussed.
Despite the current ceasefire after DGMO-level talks, relations remain tense. Shehbaz Sharif may claim de-escalation, but New Delhi sees little change. PM Modi’s firm tone sends a clear message: peace is possible only when Pakistan abandons terror. Until then, dialogue remains a distant dream.
