Reacting over General Bipin Rawat’s statement that Pakistan needs to be a secular country to have better ties with India, Qureshi while talking to the media talk today, said Pakistan is an Islamic welfare state, such remarks cannot change our ideology.

He welcomed New Delhi’s response to Pakistan’s initiative to open border crossing in Kartapur, aimed at fulfilling the demand of Sikh community.

“We are thankful to Indian government. They also sent two ministers to the ceremony,” he contented.

Mr Qureshi said Pakistan has the desire for peace at its eastern and western borders and better relations with neighbors which will bring opulence in the region.

Responding to a query regarding formation of south Punjab province, Qureshi said, there were some legal restrictions and the matter requires a constitutional amendment.

“We need support from other political parties in the parliament in this matter”, he continued.

The minister said, a secretariat will be formed in south Punjab for the solution of the matters of the masses in their own area, adding “ separate budget will be given to south Punjab from next year.”

Replying to another question, during media talk, the FM said, PTI believes in across the board accountability and respects judiciary.