India-Pakistan Relations: US Supports Direct Talks

Washington Endorses Direct Dialogue Between India and Pakistan – A Move Towards De-escalation?

Washington, Agency. In a significant statement, a senior official of the Biden administration has declared that the United States extends its support for direct talks between India and Pakistan to address any ongoing tensions. This announcement comes amidst Pakistan’s persistent support for cross-border terrorism and years of strained relations between the two nations, primarily centered around issues such as Kashmir.

India maintains its stance of desiring normal neighborly relations with Pakistan, emphasizing that Islamabad must shoulder the responsibility of creating an environment free from terrorism and animosity. India also reaffirms that Jammu and Kashmir has been, is, and will always remain an integral part of the country.

USA Backing for India-Pakistan Dialogue

Speaking during a routine press conference on Wednesday, Matthew Miller, the spokesperson for the US Department of State, stated, “As we have consistently said, we support direct dialogue between India and Pakistan on any issue of tension. This has been our position for a long time.”

This comment comes two days after Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s proposal for talks with India to resolve all outstanding and protracted issues. The bilateral relationship between India and Pakistan has been fraught with tension since August 2019 when India abrogated Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir.

Foreign Minister’s Two-fold Message to Pakistan

In response to the US’s endorsement of dialogue, India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar has reiterated that it is not possible to have normal relations with Pakistan as long as the policy of cross-border terrorism continues. He emphasized that India cannot entertain discussions that involve accommodating terrorism as part of the dialogue with Pakistan. This statement reaffirms India’s unwavering stance on countering terrorism as a precursor to any meaningful engagement with its neighbor.

In June, the Foreign Minister asserted, “We cannot normalize terrorism, and we cannot have a conversation with Pakistan as long as it continues to be the basis of the relationship. For me, this is a pretty straightforward proposition.”

As the world closely observes the dynamics between India and Pakistan, the US’s expression of support for direct dialogue hints at the potential for de-escalation and fostering an atmosphere of communication to address long-standing issues. While both nations navigate their respective stances, the international community remains hopeful for a peaceful and constructive resolution to the challenges in the region.

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