A rare exchange of greetings occurred on the social media platform X between three-time former premier Nawaz Sharif and India’s newly reelected Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Nawaz Sharif, President of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), congratulated Modi on his third-term election victory despite challenges in the recent polls.
“Congratulations to Modi Ji on assuming office for the third time. Your party's success in the recent elections reflects the confidence of the people in your leadership,” Nawaz wrote on his official X handle. He added, “Let us replace hate with hope and seize the opportunity to shape the destiny of the two billion people of South Asia.”
Modi appreciated Nawaz’s message, responding: “Thank you for your message, Nawaz Sharif. The people of India have always stood for peace, security, and progressive ideas.” He further emphasized that the well-being and security of "our people shall always remain our priority."
Modi also responded to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Nawaz's younger brother, as the two leaders engaged in diplomacy on X. After PM Shehbaz extended his well-wishes, Modi replied: "Thank you @cmshehbaz for your good wishes."
Modi secured a historic third term but lost his outright majority and now relies on regional parties for support in his first coalition government. The nuclear-armed neighbors, India and Pakistan, have fought three wars, two over the disputed Kashmir region. Relations have been frozen since India revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, dividing it into two federally administered territories.
New Delhi invited leaders of seven regional countries to Sunday's grand inauguration at the Rashtrapati Bhavan (president's palace), but PM Shehbaz was not included.
