Pak’s use of terror major roadblock in ties: Foreign Secretary

New Delhi, Aug 18 (PTI) India’s efforts to have "closerand broader" cooperation in South Asia often faced roadblocksdue to "unique challenge" from Pakistan which tends to useterrorism as an instrument of policy of diplomacy, ForeignSecretary S Jaishankar said tonight. In strong criticism of Pakistan, he said almost all majoriniatiatives of India in SAARC — be it enhancing connectivityor having deeper engagement in some other key areas — did notfructify due to hurdles posed by Islamabad, adding terrorismis central to the problem. The Foreign Secretary described Pakistan as a countrywhich not only has a "different view of the region but alsohas an atttitude towards use of terrorism as a instrument ofpolicy of diplomacy which makes it a difficult partner for allof us." The Foreign Secretary was interacting with journalists atForeign Correspondents’ Club here during which he touched upona wide range of issues including challenges on foreign policyfront and India’s engagement with major powers like US, Russiaand China. Talking about government’s neighbourhood first policy, hesaid though India has been sincere in ensuring development ofthe region, its politics often come into play. "While we all agree that we should move forward, it doesnot always go smoothly as domestic politics of our neighbourspose challenges. We have learnt to be patient and the mix ofdiplomacy and patience did see through difficult situations,"said Jaishankar. "The neighbourhood clearly faces unique challenge withrespect of one country which is Pakistan," he said, addingthe centrality of the problem is "terrorism". Referring to Indo-Pak ties, he said India made everyeffort in the last two years to improve relationship withPakistan. "What you have seen in the last two years is a greateffort on our part to reach out to Pakistan and find commonground on many issues that face the relationship. "The last time this was done in December when the ForeignMinister went for the Heart of Asia conference and we agreedto have comprehensive bilateral dialogue which we hoped wouldbegin in January this year," he said, adding then Pathankotterror attack took place. He said the problem is that the "terrorism issue hasbecome so central that it makes it very difficult for therelationship as a whole to progress". The Foreign Secrtary also talked about lack of progress inPathankot terror attack probe and continuous cross-borderinfiltrations and attacks. MORE PTI MPBSK