Britain is working with the United States to ensure that the ceasefire between India and Pakistan endures and that “confidence-building measures” and dialogue take place, UK Foreign Minister David Lammy said Saturday.
Axar.az reports, citing Reuters, “We will continue to work with the United States to ensure that we get an enduring ceasefire, to ensure that dialogue is happening, and to work through with Pakistan and India how we can get to confidence and confidence-building measures between the two sides,” Lammy told Reuters in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, at the end of a two-day visit.
The nuclear-armed South Asian rivals agreed on May 10 to a ceasefire following their worst fighting in nearly three decades. The escalation was triggered by a deadly attack on tourists that New Delhi blames on Islamabad. Pakistan has denied any involvement.
Asked about India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty — a move that could significantly affect Pakistan’s water supply — Lammy said: “We would urge all sides to meet their treaty obligations.”
Pakistan has said Britain and other countries, in addition to the United States, played a major role in helping to de-escalate the recent fighting. However, diplomats and analysts say the ceasefire remains fragile.