Kashmir issue must be resolved bilaterally by India and Pakistan, says US envoy

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Eric Garcetti, the US Ambassador to India, emphasized the need for a bilateral resolution to the Kashmir dispute between India and Pakistan, rejecting any third-party intervention, including that of the United States. Speaking to reporters, Garcetti also defended a recent visit by the US Ambassador to Pakistan to Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), asserting that the US had also visited Indian-administered Kashmir during the G20 summit.

Ambassador Donald Blome’s visit to Gilgit-Baltistan in PoK raised eyebrows as he had previously referred to it as “AJK” (Azad Jammu and Kashmir), Pakistan’s preferred terminology for PoK.

During his visit, Blome met with AJK Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas and various representatives from academia, business, culture, and civil society. The usage of “AJK” sparked controversy in India, given the sensitivities surrounding the status of Jammu and Kashmir, which India claims in its entirety.

Garcetti addressed the issue of Kashmir, affirming the US commitment to remain engaged while reiterating that the dispute must be resolved through direct negotiations between India and Pakistan, in line with India’s position under the 1972 Simla Agreement. India has consistently opposed internationalizing the Kashmir issue and involving third-party mediation.

“This is an issue that has to be resolved between India and Pakistan and not by a third party, including the US,” Garcetti stated during the 20th Indo-US Economic Summit.

The US Ambassador’s remarks underscore the longstanding Indian stance on the Kashmir dispute, emphasizing direct dialogue with Pakistan as the preferred means of resolution.

Summary:

  • US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, underscores the need for a bilateral resolution to the Kashmir dispute between India and Pakistan, rejecting third-party intervention.
  • Garcetti defends the recent visit by US Ambassador Donald Blome to Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) and the use of “AJK” in reference to PoK, sparking controversy in India.
  • Ambassador Blome’s visit included meetings with AJK Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas and various representatives.
  • Garcetti’s remarks align with India’s position, emphasizing direct negotiations in accordance with the 1972 Simla Agreement.
  • India has consistently opposed internationalizing the Kashmir issue and involving third-party mediation.
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