Pakistan's PM 'Desires Peaceful Relations' With India

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has responded to a letter from his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, saying Islamabad desires peaceful relations with New Delhi, according to an official source quoted by Reuters.

Modi had sent the letter on the occasion of Pakistan's Republic Day on March 23, also calling for peaceful relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbors and rivals.

The letter, dated March 29, wasn't officially released by either side but the official, speaking to Reuters on condition of anonymity, confirmed its contents, which were shared widely on social media.

"The people of Pakistan also desire peaceful, cooperative relations with all neighbors, including India," Khan said in his reply, adding, "I thank you for your letter conveying greetings on Pakistan Day."

Neither the Indian nor Pakistani foreign ministries responded to requests for comment.

Pakistan's Dawn newspaper quoted Modi's letter on March 23 as saying that "India desires cordial relations with the people of Pakistan" and "for this, an environment of trust, devoid of terror and hostility, is imperative."

The two nuclear-armed neighbors have fought three wars and have shared a fractious relationship since gaining independence in 1947.

Tensions have remained high ever since.

Based reporting by Reuters and Dawn.com