S. Jaishankar asserts that the Kashmir issue can be resolved once Pakistan returns its illegally occupied territory. He outlined India’s steps toward resolving the issue, including the revocation of Article 370. Additionally, Jaishankar emphasized strengthening bilateral trade relations with the U.S. and improving ties with China, while recent talks with Pakistan suggest a thawing in relations.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that the Kashmir issue will be resolved once Pakistan returns the territory it occupies illegally. Speaking at the Chatham House in London, he stated that resolving the conflict is primarily dependent on this return. Jaishankar outlined a three-step process initiated by India, starting with the abrogation of Article 370, followed by restoring economic growth and enforcing social justice in Kashmir, and finally conducting elections with high voter turnout.
Jaishankar remarked, “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.” He expressed confidence that once Pakistan returns the illegally occupied area, the Kashmir problem will be solved.
In October, Jaishankar and Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar had their first direct conversation since 2015, signaling a potential thaw in relations. These discussions hinted at the possibility of reviving cricketing ties between the two nations, according to reports from The Indian Express.
During his talk, Jaishankar addressed various topics, including the UK-India free trade agreement, and the evolving relationship with China, which he described as “unique.” He noted improvements in these ties since October 2024, particularly with the Mount Kailash pilgrimage.
Regarding the recent changes in U.S. tariffs under the Republican administration, Jaishankar announced that Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal was in Washington to discuss a bilateral trade agreement. He stated, “We had a very open conversation about it (tariffs) and the result of the conversation was that we agreed on the need of a bilateral trade agreement.”
In conclusion, S. Jaishankar’s recent address highlights India’s stance on the Kashmir issue, advocating for its resolution through Pakistan’s return of the illegally occupied territory. His remarks on bilateral relations with the U.S. and China illustrate India’s strategic diplomatic engagements aimed at fostering cooperation in trade and regional stability. The ongoing discussions between India and Pakistan mark a potential shift towards improved ties, underscoring the importance of dialogue in addressing long-standing conflicts.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
