Commonwealth rules out mediation in India, Pak bilateral issues - India News and Travel Times Provides India-centric and other News and Features

The Commonwealth has made it clear that it would not interfere in issues concerning India and Pakistan, and that both the countries should resolve their differences mutually. Addressing media persons during a press conference, Commonwealth Secretary General Kamlesh Sharma said the 53-member organisation hopes both Islamabad and New Delhi to settle their bilateral issues amicably. Sharma said the organisation would be happy to extend its assistance to both the countries, but that would only be limited to good governance and social and economic development, The Daily Times reports. Sharma underlined that the organisation's prime work is to ensure rule of law, good governance and the promotion of democracy and constitutionalism in the member nations. He also explained the agenda and key issues of the Commonwealth Heads of Government summit, which is scheduled to be held in the Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, from 27 to 29 November 2009. The theme of the biennial summit is 'Partnering for a More Equitable and Sustainable Future'.