Step in right direction: Mehbooba welcomes PM’s letter to Imran Khan

Tribune News Service
New Delhi, March 24

The Jammu and Kashmir PDP on Wednesday welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s letter to his counterpart in Pakistan seeking cordial ties in an atmosphere of trust.

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti said that PM Modi reaching out to his Pakistani counterpart is a “step in the right direction”.

“As Vajpayee ji famously said, one can change his friends but not neighbours. I hope this leads to a process of dialogue and reconciliation. Kashmir needs healing,” she noted.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished his Pakistan counterpart Imran Khan on the occasion of Pakistan National Day on March 23 saying India desired cordial ties with the people of Pakistan but that could only be achieved in an environment of trust devoid of terror.

In his letter dated March 22, PM Modi wrote to Khan, “On the occasion of the National Day of Pakistan, I extend greetings to the people of Pakistan. As a neighbouring country, India desires cordial relations with the people of Pakistan. For this, an environment of trust, devoid of terror and hostility, is imperative.“

The PM also took note of the challenges being exerted on nations by COVID 19 and said “at this difficult time for humanity, I would like to convey my best wishes to you and the people of Pakistan for dealing with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

President Ram Nath Kovind separately wished Pakistan President Arif Alvi on the occasion.