India has responded swiftly to the mention of the Kashmir issue in the joint statement issued by Pakistan and Iran following Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s visit to Pakistan. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, stated on Thursday that India has taken up the matter with Iranian authorities.
Joint Statement Contents
The joint statement, released at the conclusion of President Raisi’s maiden visit to Pakistan, underscored the significance of resolving the Kashmir issue through peaceful means, based on the will of the Kashmiri people. This statement reflects the consensus reached between Pakistan and Iran on the matter.
Visit Details
President Raisi’s official visit to Pakistan, spanning from April 22 to April 24, occurred at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The Iranian delegation, led by President Raisi and including Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian, engaged in discussions on various bilateral and regional issues during the visit.
Emphasis on Dialogue
Both Pakistan and Iran emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving regional disputes. Against the backdrop of evolving regional and global dynamics, the joint statement highlighted the need for peaceful conflict resolution mechanisms.
Prime Minister’s Remarks
During a joint press conference following their discussions, Prime Minister Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s stance on the Kashmir issue and expressed gratitude for Iran’s support. However, President Raisi did not explicitly mention Kashmir in his remarks, instead focusing on Iran’s broader stance against oppression, particularly in Palestine.
India’s proactive response to the Kashmir reference in the Pak-Iran joint statement underscores the sensitivity and complexity of regional dynamics. As diplomatic engagements continue, the resolution of the Kashmir issue remains a key focus for all stakeholders involved.