Former Prime Minister of Pakistan and President of PML-N, Nawaz Sharif, has called for Pakistan and India to leave behind their bitter past and move forward towards cooperation.
During a conversation with Indian journalists who were in Pakistan to cover the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, he suggested that Pakistan sell its surplus electricity to India, highlighting the potential benefits of such an arrangement.
Pakistan’s surplus electricity: a solution for India’s energy needs
Sharif pointed out that India is facing a shortage of electricity while Pakistan has an excess. “India needs electricity, and Pakistan has plenty.
We should sell this electricity to India at an affordable price,” he stated. He stressed that this collaboration could strengthen ties and prove mutually beneficial for both nations.
Beyond climate cooperation: trade and economic partnerships
Sharif further highlighted the importance of trade between the two countries. He stated that collaboration should extend beyond climate change and include business ventures. “Both countries should start trading with each other. If relations improve, goods can be transported between the two nations within hours,” Sharif said, signaling the potential for economic growth through stronger bilateral relations.
Advocating for India’s participation in Pakistani sports
Addressing the ongoing cricketing relations, Sharif expressed his support for the Indian cricket team’s participation in the Champions Trophy hosted by Pakistan.
He commented, “The Indian cricket team should come to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. If you ask their players, they would also want to play here. It’s the authorities who hold them back.” He emphasized that the Indian team’s presence would benefit cricket in the region.
SCO summit: a gateway to improved relations
Sharif also mentioned the potential of the SCO summit to act as a bridge between the two countries. He remarked that while it would have been a positive step for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the event in Pakistan, the presence of India’s Foreign Minister was still a welcome gesture. “The SCO could mark the beginning of better relations between Pakistan and India,” he added.
Maryam Nawaz expresses interest in visiting Indian Punjab
Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz, also attended the meeting and expressed her desire to visit Indian Punjab. She noted that the two regions share deep cultural and historical ties and have much to learn from each other. “Both the Punjabs can benefit greatly from each other’s experiences,” she said.
