Create an 'environment free of terrorism', says Modi to Pakistan PM Imran Khan

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday called PM Narendra Modi to congratulate him on his re-election in the landslide victory last week during which the latter called for creating an "environment free of terrorism."  

Government sources have told WION, the purpose of the telephone call by Imran Khan was to congratulate Modi but clarified no invitation was extended for the swearing in of the new government. 

President Ram Nath Kovind will administer the oath of office and secrecy to the Prime Minister and other members of the Union Council of Ministers at 7 pm on May 30, at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

While thanking him for the call and greetings, PM Modi referred "to his earlier suggestion to the Prime Minister of Pakistan to fight poverty jointly."

But the focus was also on terror during the call that lasted for 3 minutes 12 seconds. 

The Ministry of external affairs said PM Modi, "Stressed that creating trust and an environment free of violence and terrorism which is essential for fostering cooperation for peace, progress and prosperity in our region."

The Pakistani foreign office said, Imran Khan, "Expressed his desire for both countries to work together for the betterment of their peoples and looks forward to working with PM Modi for peace, progress and prosperity in South Asia."

This is the first conversation between the two leaders after the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 in which over 40 Indian security personnel died. Pakistan based and United Nations listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed took responsibility for the attack.

On the day of the results May 23, Imran Khan has tweeted congratulating PM Modi, "I congratulate Prime Minister Modi on the electoral victory of BJP and allies. Look forward to working with him for peace, progress and prosperity in South Asia."

PM responded, tweeting, "Thank you PM @ImranKhanPTI. I warmly express my gratitude for your good wishes. I have always given primacy to peace and development in our region."

Modi had also called Imran Khan after his victory last year in which he expressed "hope that democracy will take deeper roots in Pakistan" and reiterated "his vision of peace and development in the entire neighbourhood", according to a MEA readout.