In an indirect message aimed towards India, Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan's former premier, expressed his government's commitment to enhance ties with neighbouring countries. Addressing his supporters on Friday, Sharif, who leads the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N), conveyed his intention to improve relations with both the world and neighbouring nations, without specifically naming India.

Having previously made efforts to mend ties with India during his previous tenures, Sharif's speech indicated his desire to bridge the gap between the two nations. Unfortunately, the occurrence of terror attacks on Indian defence installations, perpetrated by Pakistan-based militants, led to the deterioration of the Indo-Pak relations.

Sharif's statements came amidst the pending results of the National Assembly election, where the PML-N emerged as the single largest party, while independent candidates supported by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) secured more seats than any political party. As per the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), out of the 265 contested seats, results for 224 constituencies have been declared, with independents winning 92 seats, PML-N securing 63, PPP obtaining 50, Muttahida Qaumi Movement acquiring 12, and other parties gaining 7 seats.

The PTI-supported independent candidates hold the flexibility to align with any party after the elections, except for PTI itself, as the party's intra-party elections were nullified, depriving it of a common symbol before the elections.

While Nawaz Sharif's commitment to improving relations with neighbouring countries is commendable, the road to reconciliation with India may prove to be challenging, given the past setbacks and the current strained environment. Only time will tell if his efforts can bring about much-needed harmony in the region.