India hopes new Pakistan govt will work for peace with neighbours

In its first official reaction to the general elections in Pakistan, India today expressed hope that the new government in that country, which is likely to be headed by Imran Khan, will work constructively for peace with neighbours to build a South Asia free of terror and violence.

"We welcome that the people of Pakistan have reposed their faith in democracy through general elections," said a spokesperson of India's External Affairs Ministry in response to questions from the media regarding the elections in Pakistan, reports our New Delhi correspondent.

"India desires for a prosperous and progressive Pakistan at peace with its neighbours," the spokesperson also said, adding that India hopes that the new government of Pakistan will work constructively to build a safe, stable, secure and developed South Asia free of terror and violence.

Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-Insaf (PTI) emerged as the largest single party but fell short of clear majority.