ISLAMABAD, Jan 19: Tensions between Pakistan and India de-escalated to some extent when the two countries took a step forward with a “friendly handshake” between Adviser to the Prime Minister on Interior, Rehman Malik, and Indian High Commissioner Satyabrata Pal here on Monday.

The two sides expressed desire to normalise the situation and restart confidence-building measures, besides tracking down perpetrators of the Mumbai attacks through joint efforts, a spokesman for the interior ministry said.

He said that the two sides had extended a “hand of friendship” for the first time after the Mumbai attacks.

Mr Pal, who had called on Mr Malik, thanked the adviser on behalf of the Indian government for playing an important role in investigation into the Mumbai carnage.

Pakistan’s High Commissioner in India, Shahid Malik, was also present.

Analysts said the meeting was quite significant in terms of de-escalation of tension and hoped that the situation would further improve.

Briefing the media about his meeting with the Indian high commissioner, Rehman Malik said: “The Indian government has assured of sharing more information with Pakistan regarding the culprits of Mumbai attacks.”

He said the briefing for ambassadors about the investigation into the Mumbai attacks reflected the resolve of the government to track down the terrorists.

About his meeting with Nawaz Sharif, the adviser said neither was he on a political mission nor did he offer cabinet slots to the Pakistan Muslim League-N. “I did not discuss the long march with him. We discussed general issues.” Mr Malik also referred to a clarification by the Punjab chief minister.

“Mian Shahbaz Sharif has issued contradictions of news items published about our meeting.”

He urged the media to assist the government in evolving consensus on issues of national interest.