Modi writes to Sharif on Pakistan National Day, says issues can be resolved in terror-free atmosphere

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was of firm belief that all outstanding issues with Pakistan can be resolved through bilateral dialogue in an atmosphere free from terror and violence.

He underlined it on Pakistan's National Day while greeting Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in a letter on Monday. "I have written to Pakistan PM Mr. Nawaz Sharif, conveying my greetings on the National Day of Pakistan," Modi tweeted.

"It is my firm conviction that all outstanding issues can be resolved through bilateral dialogue in an atmosphere free from terror & violence," he said in another tweet.

The remarks came even as separatist leaders from Jammu and Kashmir including Masarat Alam have been invited to New Delhi to attend the celebrations at the Pakistan High Commission.

Alam was released from Baramulla prison after the new Jammu and Kashmir government's policy to free political prisoners who do not face criminal charges.

Pakistan is holding its first Republic Day parade in 7 seven years in a show of strength against Taliban insurgents.

Pakistani Taliban militants attacked an army school in Peshawar on December 16 killing 150 people, mostly children.

Following the attack, the Pakistan government and political parties expressed a renewed resolve to fight terrorism in the country. Pakistan has resumed executions after lifting moratorium in the wake of attack at the Peshawar school massacre.