Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday congratulated Pakistan for its “victory” over India, expressing hope for meaningful dialogue with its arch-rival and for the resolution of outstanding issues.

“This is a victory not just for the armed forces, but for the whole nation,” Mr Sharif said in his address to the nation, hours after a ceasefire agreement brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump came into effect. “History will always remember how Pakistan’s armed forces and jets silenced the Indian military in a matter of hours,” the Pakistani leader added.

Mr Sharif expressed hope that outstanding issues between the two countries, including the distribution of water resources and Kashmir, would be resolved through negotiations.

Last month, India unilaterally revoked the Indus Waters Treaty – the agreement that divides water resources between the neighbours – following a deadly militant attack on April 22 in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Mr Sharif also thanked the U.S. and other friendly countries for their role in securing the ceasefire and expressed gratitude to China for always standing firm with Pakistan during challenging times.

(dpa/NAN)