In a direct reference to China and Pakistan, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said the neighbouring countries should stop terrorism, infiltration and border transgression for better relations with India.
“We want better relationships with China and Pakistan. Peace cannot prevail in Asia and the continent cannot prosper on the path of development till India’s relations with them improve,” he said while addressing ITBP troops, who guard India’s border with China, at a function in Samba district of Jammu.
Singh, who is on a three-day visit to forward areas along the borders with Pakistan and China, said, “Terrorism, infiltration and transgressions from across the frontiers should stop as India was ready to take lead to improve ties with neighbours but would not compromise on honour and dignity.” “Prime Minister Narendra Modi made it very clear to China that resolving all outstanding issues, including border disputes, is the key to improved bilateral ties,” he added. Stating that India was a peace-loving country, the Home Minister said: “Whether it is a question of border disputes or issues of terrorism, I feel all the issues can be resolved through talks. India is a peace-loving country. India has never been an expansionist country. Neither we have been expansionist nor we will be in future. We only want to defend our borders.”
Singh also lauded the role of ITBP that guards 3,488 km long India-China border, which is one of the most inhospitable and difficult borders.
“There are issues of road connectivity and telecom connectivity and the Ministry of Home Affairs is working for improving these issues,” he said.
The Home Minister said the ITBP is not only guarding the borders but also protecting India’s assets in countries like Afghanistan.
He lauded the role played by ITBP in defending the Indian Consulate at Herat from a terrorist attack last year.
Asked about the government’s policy to hold dialogue with Pakistan in the backdrop of heavy shelling and firing on civilian population on borders, he said, “I have said that India wants better relations with the neighbours. Better relations can be built. Pakistan should come forward, both the sides should come forward. India is ready to take lead.”