By our correspondent
ISLAMABAD: British Foreign Secretary David Lammy has described the ceasefire between Pakistan and India as a fragile and sensitive issue, underscoring the absence of any evidence from India to substantiate its allegations against Pakistan. Lammy acknowledged the complexities surrounding national security matters, noting that he did not expect India to disclose such details to him.
Despite these challenges, Lammy emphasized that international partners are united in their efforts to uphold the ceasefire and reduce tensions in the region. He also addressed the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, expressing his condolences to the victims and reiterating the UK’s firm condemnation of all forms of terrorism. He drew attention to the fact that Pakistan has endured significant terrorist violence itself and highlighted the shared responsibility of both countries to combat extremism and prevent its further spread.
The British foreign secretary praised the leadership shown by Pakistan and India in fostering a constructive dialogue during the ceasefire process, describing their cooperation as essential for regional stability. His visit marks the first by a British foreign secretary to Pakistan in four years, signalling a renewed focus on strengthening bilateral relations. Lammy indicated that his agenda would prioritize enhancing ties in areas such as cultural exchange and trade, aiming to build a more resilient partnership between the two nations.
Acknowledging the broader impact of the conflict, Lammy pointed out that tensions between Pakistan and India reverberate far beyond their borders, directly affecting communities from both countries living in the UK. He revealed that in recent weeks, concerns voiced by the British Pakistani community resulted in over 2,000 calls to the Pakistan High Commission, reflecting the anxieties felt by diaspora populations as violence and hostility escalate at home.
