Pakistan PM Imran Khan on Friday posted on Twitter that he has received message from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wishing people of Pakistan on the eve of National Day. March 23 is celebrated as National Day in Pakistan. Imran Khan posted on Twitter,
Received msg from PM Modi: "I extend my greetings & best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the National Day of Pakistan. It is time that ppl of Sub-continent work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive & prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence"
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) March 22, 2019
He posted PM Modi's message which said , " I extend my greetings & best wishes to the people of Pakistan on the National Day of Pakistan. It is time that ppl of Sub-continent work together for a democratic, peaceful, progressive & prosperous region, in an atmosphere free of terror and violence".
He later tweeted, "I welcome PM Modi's message to our people. As we celebrate Pakistan Day I believe it is time to begin a comprehensive dialogue with India to address & resolve all issues, esp the central issue of Kashmir, & forge a new relationship based on peace & prosperity for all our people."
Quoting sources, ANI reported, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi sends a customary message on National Days to other Heads of State or Government. His message to Pakistan PM Imran Khan highlighted the importance of a terror free South Asia."
India has officially decided to boycott National Day celebration of Pakistan as they have invited Hurriyat Conference. "The decision was taken after Pakistan High Commission decided to call Hurriyat leader to the reception. In February we were very clear, any attempt by Pakistan High Commission or Pakistani leadership to engage with Hurriyat leaders will not be taken lightly," said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.
This exchange becomes significant in light of increased tension between India and Pakistan post Pulwama attack. After India neutralised a major Jaish terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot, Pakistani jets entered Indian airspace and tried to attack military installations. While they were unsuccessful, one Indian MiG was shot down and IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman was nabbed when he had crossed the LoC during aerial dogfight. He was subsequently let go by Pakistan leading to decrease of tension.
