Pakistan committed to dialogue with India

Pakistan is committed to dialogue with India and would not allow the "process" to be "distracted" in any way, Pakistan High Commissioner Abdul Basit said Wednesday.

Addressing the media two days after India called off foreign secretary-level talks with Pakistan due to the high commissioner meeting separatists from Kashmir, Basit said the meeting was a part of "long-standing practice".

"I would like to underline that Pakistan stands by its commitment and vision articulated by our prime ministers. It is time for India and Pakistan to work on cooperation not confrontation," Basit said at a press conference here.

"We would not allow this process to be distracted in any way. Pakistan is seriously committed to this process," he said.

When asked about his meeting with Kashmiri separatists, the high commissioner said: "This has been a long-standing practice, I have nothing more to add to this. It is important to engage with all stakeholders."

He also said the cancellation of the talks was not the end of the road.

"Cancellation of foreign secretary-level talks by India should not discourage the two countries to find a peaceful solution to all issues. Pakistan is moving ahead sincerely and we shouldn't lose hope in building ties," he added.

"If Pakistan and India work together, if SAARC is vitalised, I can assure you that sky is the limit," he said, adding: "I and Pakistan are confident that India will spare no effort to make this process mutually beneficial," he added. - IANS