Iran Urges India, Pakistan to Settle Kashmir Conflict Peacefully
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iran’s Foreign Ministry has called on India and Pakistan to adopt peaceful approaches to resolving the tensions in the disputed Kashmir region after New Delhi stripped India-administered Kashmir of special constitutional status.
In a statement in reaction to the latest developments in Jammu and Kashmir, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Abbas Mousavi said on Wednesday, “The Islamic Republic of Iran has been closely monitoring the Indian government’s recent decisions on Jammu and Kashmir, and is carefully listening to the explanations provided by the Indian and Pakistani officials for the recent developments.”
“The Islamic Republic of Iran expects India and Pakistan, as its regional friends and partners, to take effective steps to serve the interests of people of the region by adopting peaceful approaches and dialogue,” Mousavi added.
His comments came after the Indian government revoked the special status of India-administered Kashmir, in a move that risks fueling already heightened tensions with neighboring Pakistan.
Monday's presidential decree revoked Article 370 of India's constitution that guaranteed special rights to the Muslim-majority state, including its right to its own constitution and decision-making process for all matters except defense, communications and foreign affairs.
In the lead-up to its move, India sent thousands of additional troops to the region, imposing a curfew on parts of it, shutting down telecommunications and arresting political leaders.
Both India and Pakistan claim Kashmir in full, but rule it in part. The two neighbors have fought two of their three wars over the disputed territory.
