PoK elections were “another farcical exercise by Pakistan to cover up their illegal occupation”, says MEA . PoK elections were “another farcical exercise by Pakistan to cover up their illegal occupation”, says MEA .

Ahead of Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to Islamabad to attend a SAARC meeting on August 4, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Vikas Swarup said India is ready to discuss all issues with Pakistan in a atmosphere free of “terror and violence”.

The MEA, at a press conference held in Delhi, hit out at the “sham elections” recently held in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK), saying it was “another farcical exercise by Pakistan to cover up their illegal occupation”.

“The protests in PoK are a reflection that people there have rejected Pakistan’s exercise,” Swarup said.

On the arrest of a Pakistan terrorist in Kupwara, MEA said India is waiting for a full security report before deciding the next move.

Swarup also informed the press that the DG of Pak Rangers accepted an invitation from DG of BSF to visit India for talks.

The MEA also clarified the row over three Chinese journalists being denied visa extensions, saying they were given short-term extension but it was not possible to extend them further.

“Also would like to confirm that we have no issues with the replacements that will be sent for them(Chinese journalists),” Swarup said.

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