The strained relations between Pakistan and India could seriously affect efforts in the war against terror, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz chief and former premier Nawaz Sharif said on Thursday.

Sharif expressed his concerns during a meeting with Indian High Commissioner Sharat Sabharwal at his residence at Raiwind in Lahore.

The prosperity of the people of both sides and sustainable peace in the region can be ensured by good relations between the two countries, he said.

Tensions along the Pakistan-India border will not help in improving relations between the two countries, he said.

Both sides should make efforts to defuse the tensions, as cordial relations between them are very important for peace in the region, he added.

Sharif further said that India should initiate concrete measures to resolve the outstanding Kashmir dispute and to revive the stalled composite dialogue process.

The Kashmir issue must be resolved in accordance with UN resolutions, he said.

Sabharwal said India wants to normalise relations with Pakistan and efforts are underway to eliminate misunderstandings between the two sides.

Joint efforts are needed for regional peace and progress, he said.