Pakistan takes diplomatic step against rising tensions with India

According to a statement from the Pakistani Prime Minister's Office, Prime Minister Sharif met with China's Ambassador to Islamabad, Jiang Zaidong, at his office to evaluate developments in the region.

During the meeting, it was reported that Sharif thanked China for its strong and resolute support for Pakistan in the current situation in South Asia.

According to the Pakistani press, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also held separate meetings with the foreign ministers of South Korea, Slovenia, and Somalia, providing them with information regarding the latest situation in the region.

On the other hand, in a phone call with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Prime Minister Sharif reiterated his proposal for a credible, transparent, and impartial international investigation into the terrorist attack in the Pahalgam region, stating that he condemns all forms of terrorism.

The Emir of Qatar, Al Thani, expressed his appreciation for Pakistan's stance on peace efforts in South Asia and stated that they wish to cooperate with Islamabad to de-escalate the crisis environment.

Pakistan's Ambassador to Washington, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, had requested that US President Donald Trump take on a mediating role to reduce the tensions escalating with India following the "horrific terrorist attack" in Pahalgam.

ABOUT THE TERRORIST ATTACK

On April 22, 26 people lost their lives and many others were injured when armed individuals opened fire on tourists in the Pahalgam region of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir.

India, which accused the perpetrators of the attack of "coming from Pakistan," suspended the "Indus Waters Treaty," requested that Pakistani counselors stationed in New Delhi leave the country within a week, and announced that visa services for Pakistani citizens had been suspended and all previously issued visas had been canceled.

Pakistan rejected the accusations, imposed a limit on the number of Indian diplomatic personnel in Islamabad, declared that any interference with the rivers outside of the "Indus Waters Treaty" would be considered an "act of war," suspended all trade with India, and closed its airspace.

News Source: AA