Even though there is a ceasefire along the India-Pakistan border, diplomatic tensions continue to simmer. U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed the ceasefire and extended a mediation offer on the decades-old Kashmir issue. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the U.S. offer, but India has rejected any such mediation proposal.
'Discussion Only on PoK Return'
According to sources connected with the Ministry of External Affairs, India's stance on the Kashmir issue remains unchanged, with no acceptance of third-party interference. However, if Pakistan is willing to address the issue of terrorism, then the doors for dialogue could be open. Furthermore, India has emphasized that discussions can only occur regarding the return of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). No other issues are open for dialogue, nor are we seeking any form of mediation.
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Previously, President Trump expressed eagerness to work collaboratively with both nations to resolve the Kashmir dispute, which he described as ongoing for 'thousands of years.' This comment followed his claim that the U.S. had facilitated the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan.
Shehbaz Welcomes Offer
In response to Trump's offer, the Pakistani government issued a statement expressing appreciation for President Trump's willingness to support efforts in resolving the Jammu and Kashmir conflict. The statement reflects the long-standing nature of the issue, emphasizing its impact on peace and security in South Asia and beyond. Islamabad reiterated that any just and lasting solution for the Jammu and Kashmir dispute should align with United Nations Security Council resolutions, ensuring the protection of fundamental rights for the Kashmiri people.
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In his first response following the understanding to reduce tensions between India and Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif voiced his belief that broader issues between the two nations, encompassing Kashmir, water sharing, and other contentious matters, should also be resolved.
From the beginning, India has consistently rejected any mediation on the Kashmir issue, viewing it as a bilateral matter. India's recent articulation has been firm, making it clear that Kashmir is not up for discussion; however, dialogue may be possible if Pakistan agrees to return the region of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir or extricate itself from supporting terrorism.
