Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday joined world leaders as he wished Pakistan’s new Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
In a social media post, the Indian premier said “Congratulations to Shehbaz Sharif on being sworn in as the Prime Minister of Pakistan.”
Modi extended felicitations despite soaring tensions between two arch-rival nations.
Tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi have continued unabated for decades, primarily rooted in territorial disputes, and due to Indian-occupied Kashmir.
These tensions even escalate, leading to military skirmishes, cross-border firing, and strained diplomatic relations between nuclear-armed nations.
In 2019, Islamabad downgraded its diplomatic relations with the Modi-led government after New Delhi revoked the special status of Indian-occupied Kashmir.
PM Sharif, in his previous term, expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with India but linked it with restoration of Kashmir status.
Earlier, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Salman, congratulated Shehbaz after the oath-taking ceremony, conveying wishes for success and prosperity for the people of Pakistan.
U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan, Donald Blome, took to social media to congratulate PM Shehbaz, expressing anticipation for close collaboration between the United States and the new government on mutual interests.
The United Kingdom’s Foreign Secretary, Lord David Cameron, expressed eagerness to work with PM Shehbaz and emphasized the critical nature of this time in Pakistan’s history, calling for the new government to work for the benefit of all citizens and implement essential reforms.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas sent a letter congratulating the new PM, emphasizing the strong historical bond between Palestine and Pakistan. Abbas lauded Pakistan’s consistent support for the rights and justice of the Palestinian people and extended prayers for Pakistan’s development and prosperity.
Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon highlighted the enhancement of long-term bilateral partnership in his congratulatory message, stressing the friendship, mutual understanding, and trust between the two countries.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim personally congratulated PM Shehbaz, expressing the desire to strengthen trade and diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Malaysia.
