Reiterating consistent stand on Kashmir issue; EAM Jaishankar states India didn't ask Trump to mediate over Kashmir

New Delhi, July 23: Issuing a staunch denial on Donald Trump’s statement stating India asking US to mediate for Kashmir issue with Pakistan, India clearly asserted that ‘Kashmir issue will be discussed bilaterally only between India and Pakistan’. Reiterating the same, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar in his speech in Rajya Sabha said that he categorically assured that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had not made any such request to US President Donald Trump.

 

Speaking in the Upper House, EAM Jaishankar said, “I would like to categorically assure you that no such request was made by PM. I also reiterate India’s consistent stand that all outstanding issues between India and Pakistan are discussed only bilaterally.”

 

He further added saying, “Any engagement with Pakistan only after it puts an end to cross-border terrorism. I repeat that Shimla Accord and Lahore declaration provide the basis to resolve all issues between India and Pakistan bilaterally.”

 

India in a strong negation to the US President Donald Trump denied his claims to mediate in Kashmir issue, further clearing straight that no such request had been made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Trump.

 

In an official statement, Ministry of External Affairs stated, “We have seen Trump’s remarks to the press that he is ready to mediate, if requested by India and Pakistan on Kashmir issue. No such request has been made by PM Modi to US President.”

Chairman Venkaiah naidu took umbrage to the fact that the MPs launched loud protests despite EAM S Jaishankar's clarification on Donald Trump's offer to mediate between India, Pakistan on Kashmir issue. Naidu asked the protesting MPs why they weren't satisfied with the government's clear and categoric reply. “Do you trust a foreign government, the US president more than your own government,” Naidu asked.

 

"It is a national issue. Country’s unity, integrity and national interest is involved, we should be seen speaking in one voice," Naidu told the MPs.

 

It noted further adding that the Shimla Agreement and the Lahore Declaration provided the basis to resolve all issues between India and Pakistan bilaterally.