ISLAMABAD: The participants in a dialogue at the Institute of Strategic Studies have remarked that the provocative behaviour of the Modi administration could put the region in a catastrophic condition, as India has neither conducted any investigation nor presented any evidence in the wake of the Pahalgam attack.
A dialogue was held at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) in the wake of India’s aggressive stance after the Pahalgam attack in illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. International media had reported that India wants to make its case against Pakistan without providing any credible evidence of the alleged intervention. The aim was to review the internal and external factors behind India’s war stance and the measures announced against Pakistan. The dialogue was attended by diplomats, practitioners, academics, heads of think tanks and security experts.
The participants also said that India is trying to present the condemnation of the Pahalgam attack by a large number of countries as an endorsement of New Delhi’s war measures. Pakistan’s reasonable offer for an impartial and transparent investigation has been viewed positively by many countries in the international community. India and Pakistan are also being urged to de-escalate tensions and maintain peace and security in South Asia. There is also a sense in the international community that the long-standing unresolved Kashmir issue is continuously undermining regional peace and stability.
The participants also mentioned India’s provocative behaviour and unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty would jeopardise the peace of South Asia. In this context, they said that using water as a weapon is a clear violation of the treaty and international law and that Pakistan has the right to take the matter to every appropriate international forum. Praising Pakistan’s overall response to Indian actions as contained in the April 24 NSC statement, the participants said that Pakistan has reiterated both its capability and resolve to give a befitting reply to any military provocation by India. The participants urged the international community to condemn the irresponsible Indian behaviour, which could push the South Asian region towards a dangerous conflict and humanitarian catastrophe.
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