Pakistan, Russia FMs discuss Kashmir flare-up

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi held a telephonic conversation with Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov yesterday to brief him on the current situation in the Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

The FM briefed the Russian Foreign Minister on the illegal and unilateral steps taken by the Indian Government to change the disputed status of Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir and its demographic structure.

He added that these steps by India were against the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir and International Law.

The FM underlined that Indian actions entailed grave risks for peace and security. He highlighted the severe hardships faced by the people of the Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir in the face of unprecedented lockdown of the entire population.

Qureshi apprised on the deteriorating situation of safety and security of the population in the Indian occupied Jammu & Kashmir, which has been under curfew for the last ten days.

He also shared concerns about the intensified repression by Indian security forces and the possibility of false flag operation, which would further endanger peace and security in the region.

He underscored to his Russian counterpart that Pakistan had already requested the President of UNSC to convene a meeting to discuss the illegal actions of India in the occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Foreign Minister Lavrov stated that Russia was closely observing the situation. He underlined the importance of resolution of all outstanding issues through dialogue and peaceful means.

The two leaders agreed to continue to work together for peace and stability in the region.