Atomic powers’ war to be suicidal: Qureshi

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Wednesday said that war of atomic powers will be suicidal.

He said that the Kartarpur corridor is a path to dialogue between India and Pakistan.

In an interview with British TV channel ahead of the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor, the foreign minister said that the corridor is a path for dialogue, sitting together and for removing differences and distances between India and Pakistan.

Stating that there was no pressure on Pakistan to construct Kartarpur corridor, FM Qureshi said that from day one, it was Prime Minister Imran Khan’s desire that there should be peace in the region.

“It is his thinking that we have conflicts with India, we have historical conflicts but what is the solution. War is not a solution. Both the countries are nuclear powers and war would be synonymous to suicide. There is no room for war so what the way forward is, “Qureshi asserted.

The foreign minister added The Kartarpur corridor is an extraordinary effort to remove distances.

“The people visit Pakistan through Wagah Border, it was a 400 kiolmetre route which we are bringing to four kilometre so distances have been reduced,” he said. “When distances are reduced and visits are frequent, relations will improve,” FM Qureshi continued.

“When people-to-people contacts are increased, perceptions change. This region is gripped by poverty and ignorance and we have to bring change,” he said while adding, “Change comes through mindsets and attitudes.”

“Hence the Kartarpur corridor decision is a change in mindset and thinking which reduces distances and strengthens relationships while asking people to come and sit together,” the foreign minister said.

Speaking about the reaction of the Sikh community, FM Qureshi said their reaction proves that this decision is popular and fruitful.

Sikh community in Pakistan, India and south Asia is extremely pleased with this decision. They are celebrating it like Eid, he added.

“The corridor will bring a pleasing change and I believe that wise people live on both sides of the border,” the foreign minister said.

Stating that it is the priority of PM Imran’s government to strengthen the country economically and financially and to fight corruption, FM Qureshi said that it can only be achieved if there is peace and our eastern and western borders are secure which is why we have been asking New Delhi and Kabul to talk to resolve issues.

Regarding Indian Minister for External Affairs Sushma Swaraj and Indian Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh declining the invitation to attend the groundbreaking ceremony, Qureshi said, “We invited them but they could have been busy.”

Further Qureshi commented on the Indian Punjab chief minister’s statement and regretted that his attitude was not as it should have been. “It is easy to exchange harsh words but we do not want this matter to become political,” he maintained.

The foreign minister said to ensure security the corridor will be fenced from both sides. “We want that whoever enters and should leave safely,” he said.

“There will be no need for passports or visas and people will be granted permits upon arrival after payment of a minimum fee, FM Qureshi added.

He said, “If visitors increase and situation further improves, we will try and make shops and hotels in the area.