UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy states collaborative efforts aim to establish enduring peace and dialogue amidst recent hostilities.
In a significant diplomatic undertaking, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced that Britain is collaborating with the United States to ensure a lasting ceasefire between India and Pakistan, alongside advancing measures for confidence-building and dialogue.
His remarks came during a two-day visit to Islamabad, where he concluded discussions that aimed to quell the resurgence of tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors in South Asia, which escalated earlier this month.
The ceasefire, which took effect on May 10, followed swift diplomatic efforts and has been deemed fragile by diplomats and analysts.
The latest round of clashes began after a deadly attack that resulted in the deaths of tourists in the disputed Kashmir region, with India accusing Pakistan of involvement, a claim that Pakistan has vehemently denied.
Lammy emphasized the urgency of ongoing dialogue, stating, "They are neighbors with a long history, but they have hardly engaged in dialogue in recent times.
We want to ensure that there is no further escalation, and that the ceasefire holds."
In a related context, U.S. President
Donald Trump indicated that any future talks should take place in a third country, although no specific date or venue has been established as of now.
Furthermore, in response to concerns regarding India's recent suspension of its participation in the Indus Water Treaty, Lammy urged all parties to fulfill their obligations under the agreement.
New Delhi announced last month that it had "suspended" its involvement in the 1960 treaty governing the use of the Indus River, a decision that Pakistan claims could be perceived as an act of war if it disrupts water supplies to its agrarian economy.
Additionally, Lammy confirmed that the UK will continue its engagement with Pakistan on counter-terrorism efforts, describing it as a significant challenge affecting the nation and the wider region.