Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has voiced optimism for a potential improvement in relations with India following the upcoming general elections in India. The statement comes amid longstanding tensions between the two nations, exacerbated by issues such as the Kashmir dispute and cross-border terrorism. Relations between Islamabad and New Delhi soured significantly in 2019 after India revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, leading to Pakistan downgrading diplomatic ties.
Pakistan has consistently urged India to reverse its actions in Kashmir as a prerequisite for dialogue, while India maintains that the region’s constitutional changes are internal matters. Against the backdrop of strained ties, Pakistan hopes for a positive shift in relations, emphasizing the need for both countries to create an environment free of hostility and terrorism.