File picture of Indian jawan guarding a check post near Line of Control
Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has called for a "new beginning" in relations with India amid tension over the killing of Indian soldiers and ceasefire violations along the Line of Control in the past few days.
Mr Sharif said it was vital India and Pakistan became "good friends", in remarks published today by the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), the state news agency.
"Let us make a new beginning. Let us sit together to resolve all outstanding issues in a friendly manner and in a peaceful atmosphere," he said. APP said he made the comments on Monday.
India today welcomed the move and said New Delhi is committed to resolving all outstanding issues with Pakistan.
"We welcome publicly articulated commitment by Sharif on peace and friendship, India committed to resolving all outstanding issues through bilateral dialogue but in an environment free from violence and terror," said Syed Akbaruddin, Spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs.
"Unprovoked incidents on LoC naturally have consequences for bilateral relations. We expect Pakistan to abide by its public statement to not allow its territory to be used for terrorism and violence against India. We also look for tangible movement on bringing to justice quickly to those involved in the Mumbai attacks of November 2008," Mr Akbaruddin added.