US supports direct Indo-Pak talks, says official

August 08, 2019 18:14

The United States will continue to support 'direct dialogue' between India and Pakistan on Kashmir and other issues of concern, a State Department official has said while urging for calm and restraint along the Line of Control.

The US is also 'closely following' India's legislation regarding the new territorial status and governance of Jammu and Kashmir and its broader implications, the official said on Wednesday.

The Indian Parliament on Tuesday approved a resolution abrogating special status to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 of the Constitution and a bill for splitting the state into two Union territories -- Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Reacting to India's move, Pakistan expelled the Indian envoy and downgraded its diplomatic ties with New Delhi.

"The US is closely following India's legislation regarding the new territorial status and governance of Jammu and Kashmir. We note the broader implications of these developments, including the potential for increased instability in the region," a State Department spokesperson told PTI.

"We continue to support direct dialogue between India and Pakistan on Kashmir and other issues of concern," the State Department spokesperson said.

The official was responding to a question on the situation in South Asia after Pakistan on Wednesday expelled Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria and downgraded the diplomatic ties with India.

India had also rejected any mediation effort by US President Donald Trump on the Kashmir issue.

New Delhi has consistently maintained that there is no room for a third party mediation on Kashmir.

The State Department spokesperson said that 'the US calls for calm and restraint by all parties'.

US this week had also said there was an 'urgent need' for dialogue among all actors to reduce tensions and to avoid a potential military escalation in South Asia.

The spokesperson also expressed concern over detention of people in Jammu and Kashmir, saying, "We continue to be concerned by reports of detentions and the continued restrictions on the residents of Jammu and Kashmir."

"We urge respect for individual rights, compliance with legal procedures, and inclusive dialogue with those affected."

The US, the spokesperson said, calls on all parties to maintain peace and stability along the Line of Control, including 'taking firm and resolute steps' to combat cross-border terrorism. -- PTI

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