 "Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Image used for representation: X/ @CMShehbaz")
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday said that Saudi Arabia could serve as a “neutral” venue for talks between Pakistan and India on key issues, as he expressed hope for possible talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dawn reported.
The Pakistani Prime Minister expressed hope that Saudi Arabia could be a neutral country acceptable to both sides for hosting talks.
Speaking to reporters, he said that while China could be considered a possible venue for India-Pakistan talks, he ruled it out as a neutral option, stating that India would never agree to it.
His remarks came after Donald Trump offered to mediate between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, following his announcement that the United States had brokered a ceasefire to ease tensions.
Meanwhile, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri informed a parliamentary committee that the decision to halt military operations was made bilaterally between India and Pakistan.
This was in response to opposition MPs who raised concerns over President Trump’s repeated claims that Washington played a role in de-escalating the conflict.
Pahalgam terror attack and India’s response
India has blamed Pakistan for the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, mostly tourists, claiming the attackers were Pakistan-based militants.
The attack has once again drawn global attention to Pakistan’s alleged support for terrorism.
In response, India launched Operation Sindoor on 7 May, targeting terror camps and infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Indian forces carried out precise strikes on nine terror camps, including major bases of Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Bahawalpur and Muridke. The operation used Rafale jets, BrahMos missiles, and other advanced weapons.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsAt a press briefing, Indian officials said they don’t want escalation but are prepared for any provocation. They confirmed that India has responded to all Pakistani military actions and remains on high alert.
After Pakistan’s failed drone and missile attacks, India struck back, damaging several Pakistani air and military bases.