Blocking regional initiatives can't go on: FS on Pak actions

Sending out a clear message to Pakistan, India yesterday asked it to desist from “blocking every possible initiative” under SAARC, cautioning such a hugely damaging approach will force countries of the region to look for other options like BIMSTEC to boost regional cooperation

S Jaishankar

New Delhi: Sending out a clear message to Pakistan, India yesterday asked it to desist from “blocking every possible initiative” under SAARC, cautioning such a hugely damaging approach will force countries of the region to look for other options like BIMSTEC to boost regional cooperation.

Without naming Pakistan, Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar said some basic standards of regional cooperation have to apply as he noted its opposition to major initiatives like those aimed at improving regional connectivity have frustrated a majority of the member countries. In an address at a leading think tank, Jaishankar, dwelling on China-Pakistan ties, said some issues arising out of the relationship were causing concern to India, including the economic corridor Beijing was building through Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir.

When asked about Pakistan's oft repeated threat of use of tactical nuclear weapons, the top diplomat said, “We do not speak of tactical nuclear weapons, somebody else does.”

Pak violates ceasefire
A civilian was yesterday injured as Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire twice in Poonch and Rajouri districts of Jammu and Kashmir, while a BSF head constable injured in yesterday’s cross-border firing succumbed to injuries.

The civilian Abdul Aziz, (50), a resident of Basoni village in Poonch, was injured when a mortar shell landed near his house, a police officer said.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!