Wed Jun 25 11:23:25 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Pakistan PM Expresses Readiness for Dialogue with India Amidst Tensions**

Islamabad – Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has signaled a willingness to engage in “meaningful dialogue” with India to resolve outstanding issues, including Jammu and Kashmir, water disputes, trade, and terrorism. The offer came during a telephonic conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Tuesday, June 24th, just over two months after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22nd, which claimed 26 lives and significantly escalated tensions between the two nations.

Following the Pahalgam attack, India implemented punitive measures, including suspending the Indus Water Treaty and halting trade with Pakistan. India also launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-controlled territories, which led to brief but intense clashes in May.

According to Radio Pakistan, Prime Minister Sharif expressed “profound gratitude” for Saudi Arabia’s support during the recent standoff. He has also previously expressed a desire for peace talks with India during visits to Iran and Azerbaijan.

However, India has maintained a firm stance, stating that dialogue will only occur regarding the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and addressing terrorism. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated that the Indus Water Treaty remains suspended until Pakistan credibly ceases its support for cross-border terrorism, echoing Prime Minister Modi’s stance that “terror and talks cannot go together.”

During the call with the Saudi Crown Prince, Prime Minister Sharif also discussed the volatile situation in West Asia, reaffirming Pakistan’s support for de-escalation and peaceful resolution of the Iran-Israel conflict through diplomacy. Mohammed bin Salman acknowledged Pakistan’s constructive role in this regard.

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