Pak envoy bats for 'betterment of ties', terms Modi calling Imran Khan a 'positive development'

New Delhi, Aug 15: Terming Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call to Imran Khan after Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)'s win in elections as a "positive development", Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood hoped that South Asia would be known for cooperation and not confrontation.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling PTI chairman Imran Khan after the results of the general elections is another positive development. And it is hoped that such positive developments will lead to the betterment of ties between the two countries," Mahmood reportedly said during an event at the Pakistan High Commission on Tuesday to mark the country's 72nd independence day.

He said that Pakistan had made "impressive strides" in fight against the menace of terrorism, adding that Islamabad wants "peaceful relations" with all the neighbouring countries, including India.

On July 30, Prime Minister Modi, in a telephone conversation, congratulated Imran Khan on his party emerging as the single largest party in Pakistan elections. PM Modi, during his conversation with Imran Khan, expressed hope that democracy will take deeper roots in Pakistan.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in a statement on July 28, said that India desired a "prosperous and progressive Pakistan at peace with its neighbours". The statement had also added that New Delhi hoped the newly elected government would work constructively to build a safe, stable, secure and developed South Asia, one that is free of terrorism and violence.