WASHINGTON: US State Department deputy spokesperson Mark Toner, in his briefing said in answer to a question about the suspension of peace talks: The peace process, we believe and its been our longstanding position that India and Pakistan stand to benefit from the normalization of relations and practical cooperation, and we encourage them to do so, to engage in direct dialogue thats aimed at reducing tensions between the two governments and two countries.
And we strongly support those efforts, because we believe it, obviously, will lead to greater stability and peace in the region and is to the benefit of both countries, he said.
In New Delhi, Pakistani envoy Abdul Basit said at an event that the peace process has been suspended between both neighbours.
Toner declined to answer a question on the arrest in Pakistan of an alleged Indian spy, Kulbhushan Jadhav.
I am aware of the reports about the arrest. I dont have anything … any details of the arrest, he said.
Toner also declined to comment on a question on Kashmir.
Look, our policy regarding Kashmir has not changed. As weve long said, the pace, scope, and character of those discussions or any discussions on Kashmir must be for the two sides to determine. We support any and all positive steps that India and Pakistan can take to forge closer relations, the State Department spokesperson said.
Follow this link to join our WhatsApp group: Join Now
Be Part of Quality Journalism |
Quality journalism takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce and despite all the hardships we still do it. Our reporters and editors are working overtime in Kashmir and beyond to cover what you care about, break big stories, and expose injustices that can change lives. Today more people are reading Kashmir Observer than ever, but only a handful are paying while advertising revenues are falling fast. |
| ACT NOW |
| MONTHLY | Rs 100 |  |
| YEARLY | Rs 1000 | |
| LIFETIME | Rs 10000 | |
