Welcoming election of Nawaz Sharif as Prime Minister of Pakistan, BJP today said strengthening of democracy in the neighbouring country augurs well for India but it still views these developments with "cautious optimism" in view of past experience and "disoriented and ineffective" foreign policy of the UPA government.
"BJP welcomes the victory of Nawaz Sharif in the recently held general elections in Pakistan. Democracy gaining strength in Pakistan guarantees peace in South Asia region," BJP president Rajnath Singh said in his inaugural address at the party's national executive meet here.
He said despite Sharif's election, BJP looks at Pakistan with "cautious optimism" as historically ties between India and Pakistan have become so entangled that not mere words but concrete action is required to untangle them.
"The Home Minister has made a statement that Pakistan's ISI was actively involved in misguiding Sikh youth to take up terrorist activities. If Pakistan wants to improve relations (with India) it should stop such activities immediately," Singh said.
He also requested the Indian government not to turn a blind eye to the inhumane treatment given to Sikhs and Hindus in Pakistan, and said those refugees coming from Pakistan should be given visas.
BJP expressed dismay at the foreign policy adopted by the UPA government and said even a small country like Maldives has now started giving us a tough time.
"Ever since the UPA government has come to power, India's foreign policy has become disoriented and ineffective," Singh said.
