ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Wednesday summoned the US chargé d’affaires in Islamabad and lodged a “strong demarche” over recent remarks by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, who described the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir as a “part of India” during his visit to the territory.
The Foreign Office strongly condemned and categorically rejected the ambassador’s characterisation of Jammu and Kashmir.
The FO reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir remains an internationally recognised disputed territory whose final status is to be determined in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
According to the diplomatic press release, Pakistani officials conveyed to the American envoy that Ambassador Gor’s “irresponsible statement” directly contradicted Washington’s long-standing and well-documented position on the Kashmir dispute.
The Foreign Office said the remarks were also contrary to the United States’ stated commitment to international law and the UN Charter.
Pakistan stressed that statements concerning Jammu and Kashmir should reflect its disputed status and remain consistent with established international positions.
While appreciating US President Donald Trump’s offer to mediate between Pakistan and India following the aftermath of Marka-e-Haq, the Foreign Office urged Washington to ensure that its public statements remained strictly consistent with the internationally recognised status of Jammu and Kashmir.
The FO said Pakistan would continue to advocate the rights and aspirations of the Kashmiri people and called for adherence to relevant UN Security Council resolutions on the longstanding dispute.
