India and Pakistan passed through difficult phase, we hope for peace: Pak envoy

India and Pakistan passed through a very difficult phase. We hope the long winter in ties will come to an early end, Pak High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood said. He added that "coercive measures have never worked in the past and will not work in future."

Earlier in the day, India announced that it will boycott a reception at the Pakistan High Commission to mark Pakistan's National Day as several separatists leaders from Jammu and Kashmir have been invited to the event.

Diplomacy and dialogue remain indispensable for enhancing mutual understanding and addressing outstanding issues including Kashmir, he said.