Amid ongoing heightened tensions between India and Pakistan after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, US Secretary of State Macro Rubio conducted separate conversations with India and Pakistan. He had a telephonic conversation between India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday. The outreach marks Washington’s latest attempt to prevent the situation from deteriorating further in the already volatile situation.
US Secretary reasserts supports for India on terrorism
During his call with Jaishankar, Rubio conveyed his condolences for the 26 civilians who lost their lives in what he described as ”horrific” terrorist assault. According to the US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, Rubio reinstated America’s strong commitment to join with India in the fight against terrorism.
”The Secretary encouraged India to maintain peace and stability in South Asia and to work with Pakistan toward de-escalation,”Bruce stated. He also highlighted Washinton’s dual track approach of diplomatic engagement and counterterrorism.
Rubio asked Sharif to condemn the terror attack and support investigation
On the other hand during his conversation with Shehbaz Sharif, Secretary Rubio appealed to the Pakistani leadership to strongly condemn the April 22 terror attack and to support in a credible investigation. He emphasized that accountability was essential and that Pakistani’s cooperation would be crucial in uncovering the perpetrators.
”Rubio and Prime Minister Sharif restated their shared commitment to holding terrorists accountable for their heinous acts,” as mentioned in the US statement. The Secretary also urged both the nations to reopen direct communication channels for avoiding misunderstandings and to further escalation.
The terror attack in Pahalgam which is one of the worst since Pulwana in 2019 has resulted in a fresh rupture in the India-Pakistan relationships. In return, India has suspended the Indus Water Treaty and has also shut down the Attari land transit route with Pakistan.
(With inputs from PTI)