In a diplomatic overture aimed at regional stability, Russia has extended an offer to mediate in reducing the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The proposal was made by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during a telephone conversation with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, Ishaq Dar, the Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed in an official statement.
According to the statement, the discussion placed “particular emphasis on the growing tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad.” The ministry noted that Lavrov expressed Russia’s willingness to assist in finding a political resolution to the current crisis, should both countries demonstrate interest. The statement was shared via the ministry’s official Telegram channel.
The recent spike in tensions follows a deadly attack in Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination in Indian-administered Kashmir, where at least 26 people were killed on April 22 by unidentified gunmen. The incident has further strained relations between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
Lavrov’s conversation with Ishaq Dar took place just two days after a similar dialogue with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, during which the Russian diplomat also advocated for the peaceful resolution of bilateral disputes.
The Kashmir region, claimed in full by both India and Pakistan but divided between them, has been a long-standing flashpoint. The territorial conflict has sparked multiple wars, insurgencies, and enduring diplomatic rifts since the partition of British India in 1947.
Russia has historically maintained strong ties with India, particularly in defense cooperation, remaining New Delhi’s top arms supplier for decades. The close relationship between Moscow and New Delhi dates back to the Soviet era and continues to influence the geopolitical dynamics of South Asia.
Post a Comment