Modi-Sharif meet

We welcome the move by the prime ministers of India and Pakistan to cooperate on eliminating `all forms' of terrorism in South Asia. It demonstrates a readiness by two leaders to engage on such a vital regional security issue despite their protracted antagonistic relations. We believe that such an interaction will eventually help defuse tension not only between them but also in South Asia.  

The first meeting between the two PMs in over sever months was held on the sidelines of the BRICS/SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation) Summit in Russia. That they grasped the opportunity of engaging each other itself is an auspicious news. They talked on five points to tackle terror and improve ties between the two nations. The two governments have also scheduled meetings between national advisers and heads of border security forces which augurs well as a problem solving initiative. Indian PM Modi also agreed to pay a visit to Pakistan next year to attend the SAARC Summit signalling further normalisation of ties.

The whole South Asia has been suffering from the high cost of non-cooperation between these two key players. We are yet to formulate any regional approach to counter growing terrorism which has been threatening the security of the whole region. We hope the agreement of the two prime ministers to rein in militancy will be a great boost for establishing order and peace in South Asia.