Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif strongly condemning the recent unprovoked cease-fire violations on the Working Boundary and LOC by Indian forces Thursday said that Pakistan's quest for peace must not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness. 

"I strongly condemn the recent unprovoked cease-fire violations on 25-26 October 2016, by the Indian forces at the Working Boundary in Chaprar and Harpal sectors and on the LoC (Line of Control) in Bhimber sector resulting in Shahadat of two civilians and injuries to nine civilians. These violations, if continued, will not go unpunished," he added.

"We have exercised maximum restraint; our quest for peace must not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness. We are a peace loving nation; we believe in resolution of all the outstanding issues and disputes through dialogue," the Prime Minister said in a statement issued from the PM's Media Office here.

He said, "As a responsible sovereign state, we have been endeavouring for regional peace and stability for the collective betterment and prosperity of the residents of South Asia.

It is unfortunate that our initiative and efforts have not been reciprocated by India."

"India should investigate the recent incident and share the findings with Pakistan, instruct its troops to respect the cease-fire in letter and spirit, and refrain from intentionally targeting the villages and maintain peace on the Working Boundary and the LoC," the Prime Minister added. -APP