Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has described Indian foreign minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to Pakistan for the SCO meeting as a positive step towards improving relations between the two nations. Speaking in Lahore to Indian journalists who traveled to cover Jaishankar’s engagements, Sharif urged for progress in bilateral ties, stating that the past should not hold the relationship captive.

Sharif, a three-time prime minister and elder brother of current PM Shehbaz Sharif, reflected fondly on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's surprise visit to his Lahore home in December 2015, emphasizing that it was not an ordinary gesture. Sharif recalled how Modi, en route from Kabul to India, expressed a desire to visit him, which led to a memorable meeting that even included Modi greeting Sharif’s mother.

“What Modi did wasn’t a small gesture,” Sharif remarked, adding that the visit left a lasting impression. He criticized his political rival, former PM Imran Khan, for using inappropriate language against Modi, which he believes damaged the potential for better relations between the two countries. "I would never use such language; we have certain values that must be respected," Sharif said.

While Sharif refrained from commenting on recent developments in Jammu and Kashmir, he expressed a desire for both countries to move beyond historical grievances. "Both sides have their issues, but it's better to bury the past," he remarked. Sharif stressed the importance of ensuring that efforts to normalize ties are not disrupted, referencing the Pathankot terror attack in 2016, which derailed peace efforts following Modi’s 2015 visit.

Sharif also supported the resumption of SAARC, trade, and cricket ties between India and Pakistan, emphasizing the mutual benefits of such engagements. He highlighted the missed opportunities for trade between the two countries, noting that goods sent from Amritsar to Lahore via Dubai benefit no one. “What should take two hours now takes two weeks,” Sharif lamented, urging for the two countries to act as each other’s markets instead of relying on intermediaries.

Reflecting on the shared history, Sharif recalled how former Indian PM A.B. Vajpayee had once approached him to purchase electricity from Pakistan, showcasing the potential for economic cooperation. Sharif emphasized the need for progress and hinted at a willingness to travel to India if a cricket final between the two nations took place. “We have lost 75 years, and we cannot afford to lose another 75,” he said.

Sharif, who is known for his close personal rapport with Modi, reiterated his commitment to building bridges between the two nations, urging both sides to seize any opening for dialogue and cooperation.