India Cites Relations in Decision on Iftar Invite from Pakistan

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated on Friday that invitations from Pakistan High Commission for events like Iftar depend on the relationship between the two countries. Responding to queries about Indian officials attending the Iftar dinner hosted by the Pakistan High Commission to mark Pakistan’s National Day, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal remarked, “Nimantran toh rishton pe nirbhar karta hai” (invitations depend on relations). He added that accepting such invitations is also determined by the state of bilateral ties.

Pakistan High Commission Hosts Iftar

The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi marked its National Day with an Iftar gathering on Thursday. The event was attended by dignitaries, diplomats, and prominent personalities, including former Union Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar, who was a guest at the occasion. The Iftar was part of the High Commission’s annual observance aimed at fostering diplomatic engagement and cultural exchange.

India Calls Out Pakistan’s Role in Terrorism

While addressing the media, Jaiswal reiterated India’s concerns over Pakistan’s continued support of cross-border terrorism. He emphasized that Pakistan’s role in promoting terrorism remains the biggest obstacle to peace and security in the region. “The world clearly knows that the real issue is Pakistan’s active promotion and sponsorship of cross-border terrorism,” Jaiswal said.

Reference to Jammu and Kashmir Statement

Jaiswal referred the media to a previous statement related to Jammu and Kashmir, stating, “I urge you to refer to the statement we released two days ago for more information.” This response came after Pakistan’s comments on Jammu and Kashmir, which followed remarks by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a recent podcast interview.

PM Modi’s Efforts for Peace Met with Hostility

In his interview with American podcaster Lex Fridman, PM Narendra Modi discussed his efforts to build peaceful relations with Pakistan. He recalled inviting then-Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to his swearing-in ceremony and even personally traveling to Lahore in pursuit of peace. However, PM Modi expressed disappointment, noting that “every noble attempt at fostering peace was met with hostility and betrayal.”

Pakistan’s Response to Modi’s Remarks

Following PM Modi’s remarks, Pakistan’s foreign office issued a statement rejecting his comments, adding to the ongoing tensions between the two nations.