India today said it will take a decision at “appropriate time” regarding a visit by an NIA team to Pakistan in connection with Pathankot terror strike even as it asserted that Indo-Pak dialogue has not been suspended.
India has also asked Pakistan to take all necessary steps for ensuring safety, security and well being of all Indians in Pakistani custody especially in light of the mysterious death of Indian prisoner Kripal Singh in a jail there.
Asked about Pakistan Prime Minister’s Adviser Sartaj Aziz’s remarks that they may consider allowing a visit by the NIA team if India would make a formal request, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup said, “The (Pakistan) JIT visit was held in a constructive and cooperative environment to investigate the Pathankot Air Base attack.
“We welcome cooperation to combat all forms of terrorism... The investigations are ongoing. We will consider the next step at appropriate time.”
On the status of Indo-Pak dialogue, Mr. Swarup said, “Multiple conversations have been held between India and Pakistan at multiple levels including at the level of the two Prime Ministers who spoke to each other quite recently.
“Obviously, after the Pathankot terror attack, the focus of the conversations was on the investigation of that particular attack. However, other aspects of the relationships have also been discussed. I have made statements and so has my Pakistani counterpart. So this should give you clarity that the dialogue process has not been suspended.”
Earlier this month, Pakistan High Commissioner Abdul Basit during an interaction with media here had said, “I think at present the peace process between India and Pakistan is suspended.”
Asked about safety and security of Indian prisoners in Pakistani jails and whether the issue has been raised with Pakistan in view of Kirpal’s death, Mr. Swarup said, “Yes.”
“Through our High Commission in Pakistan, we have asked the government of Pakistan to take all necessary steps for ensuring safety, security and well being of all Indians in Pakistani custody. And, naturally this has been reiterated in light of what has happened with Kripal Singh.”
