In a joint statement with Pakistan, Saudi Arabia appears to echo India’s position on Jammu and Kashmir. Following a meeting between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud and Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif, the statement emphasizes the need for India and Pakistan to resolve their “outstanding issues” bilaterally, notably the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, to ensure regional peace and stability.
The joint declaration underscores the significance of dialogue between India and Pakistan to address their longstanding issues, particularly the Jammu and Kashmir conflict, with the aim of fostering peace and stability in the region.
During their discussions, the leaders also exchanged views on various regional and global developments, including the concerning situation in Gaza. They jointly called for international efforts to halt Israeli military operations in Gaza, mitigate humanitarian consequences, and urged Israel to adhere to international law while facilitating unimpeded humanitarian aid access to the region.
India has consistently maintained that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of the country and desires normal relations with all neighboring nations, including Pakistan, in an atmosphere devoid of terrorism and hostility.
Previously, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had urged the United States to utilize its influence to encourage India to engage in peaceful dialogue over the Kashmir issue. However, India’s Minister of External Affairs, S Jaishankar, reiterated India’s stance to address Kashmir-related matters solely with Pakistan through bilateral channels, emphasizing a commitment to dialogue for resolving disputes.
