High Commissioner briefs FCO Minister Mark Field on regional situation

The High Commissioner, Mohammad Nafees Zakaria, yesterday briefed the FCO Minister, Hon. Mark Field, on the prevailing situation in the region in the wake of Pulwama attack in Indian Occupied Kashmir (IOK) and Indian act of aggression.

The High Commissioner highlighted that the Prime Minister of Pakistan twice offered, to India, cooperation in the investigations of Pulwama attack for which they need to share credible evidence. He also mentioned that Prime Minister Imran Khan reiterated the offer of dialogue to India to resolve contentious issues and lessen tension.

Mr. Zakaria conveyed Government’s message that Pakistan wanted peace and stability in the region and looks forward to the UK’s role in de-escalating the situation and advising India to refrain from any misadventure. Pakistan remains resolved to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity at any cost, he said.

The High Commissioner also apprised the Minister of the gross human right violations in IOK and hoped that the UK would help in addressing the plight of Kashmiri Muslims and resolution of longstanding dispute of Kashmir, in accordance with the UN Security Council Resolutions.

The Minister, Mr. Mark Field, said that the UK was monitoring the situation closely, expressed concern over the situation, urged maximum restraint and called for dialogue. He said the UK was contacting both the sides.

Earlier in the day, during the Parliamentary Session, British Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Theresa May, had also expressed concern and said that the UK was working closely with the international partners, including the UN Security Council to de-escalate the tension.