On March 6, 2025, S. Jaishankar emphasized that the Kashmir issue will be resolved once Pakistan returns the part under illegal occupation. He discussed the measures India has implemented towards peace, the recent dialogue between India and Pakistan, and ongoing relationships with both China and the United States.
On March 6, 2025, India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, asserted during an event at the Chatham House think tank in London that the resolution of the Kashmir issue hinges on the return of the region currently under illegal Pakistani occupation. He expressed confidence that the Kashmir conflict is mostly resolved, emphasizing that India is awaiting Pakistan’s action regarding the so-called ‘stolen part’ of Kashmir.
Jaishankar outlined three pivotal steps taken by India to address the Kashmir situation: the abrogation of Article 370, the promotion of economic growth and social justice in the region, and the successful conduct of elections yielding high voter turnout.
He stated, “Removing Article 370 was step number one, restoring growth and economic activity and social justice in Kashmir was step number two, and holding elections with a very high turnout was step number three.” Jaishankar reiterated that the issue will be fully resolved once Pakistan returns the part of Kashmir it occupies unlawfully.
Last October marked the first direct engagement between the foreign ministers of India and Pakistan since 2015, a conversation that explored the possibility of rekindling cricketing ties between the two nations. This development indicates a potential thaw in relations, further discussed during the Chatham House session focused on India’s global role.
In addition to Kashmir, Jaishankar addressed India’s dynamic relationship with China, acknowledging its complexities and recent improvements. He noted progress in bilateral ties since October 2024, particularly mentioning mutual interests and recognition of sensitivities.
Regarding the new Republican administration’s tariffs in the United States, Jaishankar revealed that discussions are ongoing about establishing a future bilateral trade agreement. He indicated the importance of such negotiations following the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump, stating that both nations recognize the necessity for collaboration on trade issues.
In summary, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that the resolution to the Kashmir issue primarily depends upon Pakistan’s return of the illegally occupied territory. He elaborated on India’s strategic measures taken towards resolving the Kashmir conflict, highlighted positive developments in India-China relations, and discussed ongoing trade negotiations with the United States. The outcomes of these diplomatic interactions will be pivotal for India’s regional stability and international relationships.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
