WOWING THE WORLD

Most respondents approve of the Centre's overall foreign policy, the handling of the stand-off with China and India's position on Pakistan. On closer ties with the US, opinion is divided

- PRADIP R. SAGAR

Recently, in an interview with an Arabic news channel, former Pakistan prime minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his willingness to hold talks with India, saying the two countries cannot be “normal neighbours” unless serious issues are addressed through meaningful discussions. India reiterated its “clear and consistent” position: “We desire normal neighbourly relations with all… including Pakistan. For this, an environment free of terror and hostility is imperative.” The respondents of the India Today CVoter Mood of the Nation share similar sentiments, with more than 55 per cent against talks with Pakistan, more than the 52 per cent in January 2023, while 27 per cent believe in talks. Even though Pakistan has been going through political and economic turmoil, Islamabad continues its proxy war by supporting terror attacks on Indian soil.