US calls on India, Pakistan for immediate de-escalation, backs direct dialogue between the two sides
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio today conveyed this when speaking with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and with Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif.
US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce in a statement said:
'Secretary Marco Rubio spoke today with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. The Secretary emphasized the need for immediate de-escalation.
'He expressed U.S. support for direct dialogue between India and Pakistan and encouraged continued efforts to improve communications.
'The Secretary reiterated his condolences for the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam and reaffirmed the United States' commitment to work with India in the fight against terrorism.'
EAM Jaishankar, in a post on X, said:
'Spoke with US @SecRubiothis evening.
'Deeply appreciate US commitment to work with India in the fight against terrorism.
'Underlined India's targeted and measured response to cross-border terrorism.
'Will firmly counter any attempts at escalation.'
In his phone call with the Pakistani PM, Rubio 'emphasized the need for immediate de-escalation. He expressed U.S. support for direct dialogue between India and Pakistan and encouraged continued efforts to improve communications.'
'The Secretary expressed sorrow for the reported loss of civilian lives in the current conflict.
'He reiterated his calls for Pakistan to take concrete steps to end any support for terrorist groups.'
According to Dunya News, the Pakistani PM told the US Secretary of State that 'India's attacks had violated Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity, while gravely jeopardizing peace and stability in the South Asia region.'
He also 'reaffirmed Pakistan's firm resolve to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity at all costs, and stressed that Pakistan reserved the right to act in self-defence'.
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