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PR. No.367/2008
Date: 28/11/2008
MUMBAI TRAGEDY
Pakistan at the highest levels has strongly condemned the horrific terrorist attacks in Mumbai and the President and the Prime Minister have conveyed to the Indian leadership our sense of shock and deep sorrow on the loss of life.
The Foreign Minister who is presently visiting India has also, in unequivocal terms, conveyed to the Indian leadership, the abhorrence and distress of the Government and people of Pakistan at these dastardly attacks.
In separate telephone calls today to the Indian Prime Minister, the President and the Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan’s strong condemnation and indignation on the terrorist attacks in Mumbai and expressed Pakistan’s readiness to extend every assistance and cooperation that the Government of India may require in investigating these incidents. Director General (ISI) will visit India in this regard.
Earlier Pakistan had proposed closer intelligence cooperation and meetings between the intelligence chiefs of the two countries. Pakistan and India have established mechanisms of cooperation for combating terrorism. Joint anti-terrorism mechanism exists. At its meeting in New Delhi in October, it was decided to make it more effective. Anti-terrorism cooperation is also an item in the Composite Dialogue process. Both countries have also broad ranging cooperation on a range of issues relating to terrorism, crime and drug trafficking. The meeting of Interior/Home Secretaries of the two countries held in Islamabad on 25-26 November was productive. It was decided that severe action will be taken against any elements involved in terrorist attacks.
Pakistan, itself a victim of terrorism, has ongoing cooperation in combating terrorism with several countries of the world. Terrorism is a global problem and needs to be combated in all its forms and manifestations through serious, sustained and pragmatic steps.
Pakistan is prepared to deepen its engagement with India, including on combating terrorism. It is however, important to avoid blame game and knee jerk reactions. We are confident that the Government of India will respond positively to Pakistan’s offer to cooperate in the investigation of the Mumbai attacks. It is in the interest of Pakistan and India to enhance multi-track cooperation in anti-terrorism.
Islamabad
28 November 2008
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