Q.1234 Foreign Secretary level talks with Pakistan

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of times foreign secretary level talks have been held between India and Pakistan during the last one year and venues where such talks were held;
(b) the main issues raised in these talks and whether any meaningful outcome has come therefrom; and
(c) whether these secretary level talks are forming any solid platform which can pave the way for any meaningful talks between the two countries?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI S.M. KRISHNA)

(a) to (c) Foreign Secretary level talks between India and Pakistan, held on February 25, 2010 in New Delhi, were aimed at reviewing India’s bilateral relationship with Pakistan and to build trust and confidence between the two countries. During the discussions, Foreign Secretary clearly conveyed our concerns on terrorism emanating from Pakistan and directed against India. Pakistan Foreign Secretary expressed the desire of the Government of Pakistan to make all possible efforts for a successful conclusion of the Mumbai attack trial which is underway in Pakistan. He stated that Pakistan was determined not to allow its territory to be used for terrorist activity against any country.

Foreign Secretary also held discussions with Pakistan Foreign Secretary on June 24, 2010 in Islamabad to prepare for the visit of External Affairs Minister on 15 July, 2010 to Pakistan. The meeting was held to discuss the modalities for restoring trust and confidence so that the two countries engage in a comprehensive, sustained and meaningful dialogue on all issues of mutual interest and concern.

In addition, Foreign Secretary met with Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on September 26, 2009 in New York.

http://www.mea.gov.in/mystart.php?id=220116336.

Rajya Sabha