By IANS,
Islamabad : The following is the statement made by Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna on his arrival here Wednesday for talks with his Pakistani counterpart:
I am very pleased to be in Pakistan on the invitation of my distinguished colleague, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, the foreign minister of Pakistan. This is an important visit as it marks the beginning of a new journey in our efforts to build a peaceful, friendly and cooperative relationship between our two countries.
I bring with me the warm greetings of the people and government of India for the well being of the people and government of Pakistan. I would also like to convey our best wishes for a peaceful, prosperous and stable Pakistan.
During my stay in Islamabad, I, along with my delegation, am looking forward to my meetings with Foreign Minister Qureshi and his delegation. We hope to discuss all issues of mutual interest and concern that can contribute to restoring trust and building confidence in our bilateral relationship. I also look forward to receiving feedback on the issues raised by our Home Minister during his visit to Pakistan last month on our core concern of terrorism, particularly in the light of the discussions our Home Minister had in Pakistan in the context of the interrogation of David Coleman Headley regarding the Mumbai terrorist attack. India is committed to resolving all issues with Pakistan through a peaceful dialogue and negotiations, based on mutual trust and confidence.
I am also honoured by having the opportunity of calling on their excellencies, the president and prime minister of Pakistan.
I am carrying with me a message of peace and friendship from the people of India and we hope to undertake this voyage of peace, however long and arduous, jointly with the government and people of Pakistan.