New Delhi, Mar 21 (UNI) India said today that Pakistan’s active promotion and sponsorship of cross-border terrorism is the biggest roadblock to peace and security in the region.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, answering a question at a media briefing, said that "the world clearly knows that the real issue is Pakistan's active promotion and sponsorship of cross-border terrorism. In fact, this is the biggest roadblock to peace and security in the region".

On whether an invite was extended to any Indian official for the Pakistan National Day event at the Pakistan High Commission, he said: “As for invitations, they depend on relationships, don’t they? Invitations are respected … accepting them depends on the nature of the relationship.

“I would also urge you to take a close look at the statement we issued two days ago. If you examine it carefully, you will find answers to all the questions you have asked.”

On the issue of radical Islamic preacher and fugitive Zakir Naik’s presence in Pakistan and his meeting with top leaders there, the MEA spokesperson said:

“Zakir Naik, you know, this is not the first time that he has been treated in Pakistan.

“And obviously, it shows, you know, the kind of approach his hosts have and what it means for us, and what it means in terms of giving so much of support to a person who is wanted here.”

UNI RN