India-Pakistan talks must be bilateral: MEA

New Delhi

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stressed that all engagement between India and Pakistan must be strictly bilateral, without any third-party involvement. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, during a weekly briefing, underlined that any talks regarding Jammu and Kashmir would only focus on Pakistan vacating illegally occupied Indian territory. He emphasized, Talks and terror don’t go together, highlighting India’s openness to discussing the return of terrorists whose names were shared with Pakistan years ago.

Jaiswal also mentioned the Indus Waters Treaty remains suspended until Pakistan clearly stops supporting cross-border terrorism. When asked about US President Donald Trump’s claim that he helped broker a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, Jaiswal declined to comment further, saying the issue was already addressed in a previous briefing.

On relations with China, Jaiswal noted a recent phone call between India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. They discussed India’s firm stance against terrorism from Pakistan, with China recognizing that trust and respect are essential for good India-China ties.

The ceasefire followed India’s Operation Sindoor, launched after a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians. The operation targeted terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, resulting in intense clashes. Although President Trump announced a ceasefire, India reaffirmed that all issues with Pakistan, especially about Jammu and Kashmir, must be resolved bilaterally.

India on Thursday reaffirmed its commitment to fight terrorism and urged the world to hold Pakistan responsible for attacks against India. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the need for global unity against terrorism. An all-party delegation is traveling internationally to share India’s stance and seek support in combating cross-border terrorism linked to Pakistan.