NewDelhi/Nagpur: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Monday said that the 26/11 Mumbai attack issue was raised during talks with Pakistan.
“We raised the 26/11 Mumbai attack issue and asked Pakistan to expedite the trial process of accused in the case,” added Swaraj.
“The underlying sentiment, on which I am confident that this House concurs fully, was that the continued estrangement of two neighbours was a hurdle to the realisation of our shared vision of a peaceful and prosperous region,” she said.
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At the same time, there was also a “sharp awareness” that principal obstacles to the growth of ties, especially terrorism, would have to be clearly and directly addressed.
She read out her statement as members of several opposition parties were in the Well vociferously raising slogans on several issues.
Swaraj said following her visit to Islamabad a ‘Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue’ with Pakistan will begin with the objective of “removing hurdles in the path of a constructive engagement by addressing issues of concern.”
Also, it aims at “exploring and establishing cooperative ties,” she said, adding initiatives on trade and connectivity, people-to-people exchanges and humanitarian issues would contribute to welfare of the entire region and promote better understanding and mutual trust.
“The new Dialogue, we sincerely hope, marks a new beginning also for peace and development in the whole region,” she said.
Sushma Swaraj was interrupted by Opposition members, who stormed into the Well of the Rajya Sabha, but she continued to speak amid uproar.
She is likely to make an statement in Lok Sabha at 2 pm today.
