(Pics) PM statement: Bilateral fine, what about ceasefire violations?

New Delhi, Sept 25: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh seems to be more concerned about India's bilateral relations with the United States of America. That has been the case ever since the Congress has come to power. But has Singh been able to deliver on these lines? Evidently not. The rupee is still sinking by the day against dollar and there are gross issues on employment outsourcing still affecting the job market.

First meet the internal differences, bilateral relations can wait

In his statement, just before leaving for Washington for a bilateral summit meeting with President Barack Obama, Manmohan Singh took the onus of sharing the details and the agenda of his meet with the American President.

He said,"Over the past decade, our relationship with the United States, which is one of our most important relationships, has transformed into a global strategic partnership. We see the US as a long-term partner in our development efforts, and in fostering a global environment that is conducive to our growth. For India, the US remains a key source of technology, investment, innovation and resources, and one of the most important destinations for our goods and services."

This, despite the fact that there are no returns in turn. In such a situation, isn't it important that you strenghthen your defences against your notorious neighbors Pakistan and Bangladesh?

As citizens of the nation, we have the right to know about what you wish to discuss with the Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and whether ceasefire violations and terror attacks form a part of the discussion.

A mere "During my visit to New York, I also look forward to bilateral meetings with the leaders of some of our neighbouring countries, including Bangladesh, Nepal and Pakistan" would just not do.

Bilateral meetings with neighbours you say, what about terror attacks?

Mr PM, let us remind you that Pakistan has violated the ceasefire for about 120 times in the past one year. 98 such instances can be counted since January 2013 itself. And you still talk about bilateral relations, which means growth and progress in trade and business?

Nepal and Bangladesh, on the other hand, play silent spectators after pumping terrorists into the country, which is nothing less than a violation.

What experts believe

It is high time that Prime Minister took a stand on the ceasefire violations and terror attacks in India and talk to the Pakistani premier accordingly.

"There should be an agenda for the meeting. Chit chat and maintaining 'friendly relations' with Pakistan comes later," said one expert (who did not want to be named).

Senior BJP leader Yashwant Sinha said,"Peace and terror do not go with each other. Hence, it is not a good idea to just meet, it is important to see whether the truce delivers."

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