Highlights: SM Krishna, Hina Rabbani Khar address the media

Islamabad: Foreign ministers of India and Pakistan, SM Krishna and Hina Rabbani Khar addressed the media in Islamabad today. Here are the highlights of the presser:

Hina Rabbani Khar:

• As a part of the broader vision, India and Pakistan have decided to move forward. We will not be held hostage by history.
• We will build on convergences that unite India and Pakistan.
• We must learn from the past and not miss opportunities. Pakistan is committed not to miss any opportunities to normalise relations.
• Pakistan has sent a strong message that we are willing to move forward to a new future which is people-centric and development-centric that focuses on the people of India and Pakistan.
• We have to get out of the mindset where we view everything negatively vis-a-vis each other.
• Visa agreement is the first step. It is a big step. It's an effort to make the people-to-people to contact stronger.
• Trade normalisation between India and Pakistan expected around December 2012.
• We look forward to a peaceful future. I have talked to Foreign Minister SM Krishna to ensure talks are productive.
• The aspirations of Kashmiri people must be kept in mind.
• The commitment and vision that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has shown must be applauded. Foreign Minister SM Krishna has led the way.
  
  
  SM Krishna:

• We aim to build a relationship of trust which is mutually beneficial.
• Given the complexity of the relationship, we are happy with the resumed talks.
• The talks have been cordial, frank and positive.
• We are happy that Pakistan has given its commitment in bringing the perpetrators of the Mumbai 26/11 to justice.
• Interior Minister Rehman Malik has agreed to release all Indian fishermen in Pakistan prisons. I hope their boats are also returned.
• The path ahead won't be easy, but we are determined to walk the path. We will walk the talk together.