PM Modi accepts Sharif's invitation to visit Pakistan in 2016; NSAs to meet to discuss all terror-related issues

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accepted an invitation from his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif to visit the country for South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) meeting in 2016.

A confirmation in this regard was given in a joint press conference following a meeting between PM Modi and Sharif. The press meet was addressed by foreign secretaries of both India and Pakistan.

Addressing the press conference in Ufa, Russia, Pakistan foreign secretary Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry said that it was the "collective responsibility" of both the countries to tackle the menace of terrorism.

He further said that both the leaders, during their hour-long meeting, conveyed to each other that they were prepared to discuss "all outstanding issues" and cooperate to eliminate the menace.

Indian Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar announced a meeting between the National Security Advisors (NSAs) of both India and Pakistan in New Delhi to further discuss the issue of terrorism and security. Notably, this would be the first meeting between the NSAs of the neighbouring countries under the regime of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Jaishankar further said that early meetings of DG BSF and DG Pakistan rangers followed by a meeting of DGMOs were also decided upon.

The two countries also announced promotion of religious tourism.

Earlier, sources said that the meeting between PM Modi and Sharif ended in a "cordial atmosphere". As per sources, Sharif claimed that Pakistan "is doing unprecedented work in controlling non-state actors", while Modi kept a firm stand and said "give us results".

India is said to have raised the issue of the pace of 26/11 trial. Sources say that India has clearly told Sharif that the two countries need to build confidence before going any further in our relationship.

According to sources, Modi rubbished Pakistan's claims on Indian involvement in Karachi and MQM and asked Pakistan to give proofs it has any to show the involvement. India has also raised the issue of unprovoked firing by Rangers along the Line of Control.