The Indian military has indicated plans to continue confidence-building measures with Pakistan amid efforts to defuse tensions and “reduce the alertness levels”. The remarks came soon after Pakistan military said the understanding on ending the hostilities had been extended until May 18. India and Pakistan had held DGMO-level talks earlier this week after announcing a ceasefire. Meanwhile Islamabad claimed on Thursday that it would ensure a “swift and assured response” in case of any ceasefire violations — cautioning that serious escalation could result in mutual destruction.
“Further to the understanding between the two DGMOs (Directors General of Military Operations) on May 10, it has been decided to continue the confidence building measures so as to reduce the alertness level. As situation develops further, we shall intimate you,” an Indian Army official said told PTI.
Meanwhile Foreign Minister S Jaishankar reaffirmed on Thursday that the Kashmir issue was a ‘bilateral matter’ — adding that the Indian government was willing to discuss matters pertaining to the vacation of illegally occupied territory. He also stated that Pakistan was expected to take concrete actions on terrorism and needed to hand over a list of terrorists and dismantle terrorist infrastructure.
“So sometimes the Kashmir issue has been brought up again. The only thing which remains to be discussed on Kashmir is the vacating of illegally occupied Indian territory in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. We are open to discussing that with Pakistan. So I want you to spell out our positions very clearly so that you know what is in your minds and what many of you have raised with me on various occasions. The government’s position is very, very clear,” he said.
(With inputs from agencies)