New Delhi, Sep 17 (IANS) A showdown with India is not in Pakistan's best interests, former Pakistani national security advisor Major General (Retd) Mahmud Ali Durrani said.

"There is a need for a paradigm shift in India-Pakistan relationship, from confrontation to cooperation," Durrani, who was at the Institute of Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA) here Friday, said in his presentation.

There was a growing realisation in Pakistan today that confrontation with India is unsustainable and it is not in Pakistan's interest, he said.

Touching upon various issues between India and Pakistan, Durrani identified terrorism as a common threat faced by both countries and argued that there should be a joint mechanism to deal with the menace.

He also stressed the importance of resolving all issues, including Kashmir, but held that talks on different issues should be allowed to go at their own pace and back channels must be employed to deal with intricate issues.

Durrani was of the opinion that issues like Sir Creek and Siachen would be easy to resolve.

Acknowledging India's contribution to Afghan reconstruction, he backed the idea of India-Pakistan cooperation in Afghanistan in future.

He also underscored the need for relaxation of the visa regime to facilitate greater interaction between the people of both the countries and held that this would help clear mutual misperceptions and build an atmosphere of trust.