Controlling the damage, US backs India’s stand citing Kashmir issue was a bilateral one between India, Pakistan

Washington, July 23: Calling out for unwanted controversy, US President Donald Trump cited statements which would create bilateral tensions between the countries. Donald Trump’s statement on Kashmir issue has however stirred the mess and now to control the damage, the United States Department backing India’s stand issued a statement that the Kashmir issue was a bilateral one between India and Pakistan, adding that the foundation of successful dialogue lied on Pakistan taking action against terror emanating from its land.

 

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on his visit to United States had bilateral meeting with President Donald Trump. Sitting in the Oval Office, the Pakistan PM Imran Khan asked the US President to conciliate the Kashmir dispute with India, to which Trump in a fallacious claim stated that he was already asked by PM Modi to do the same, further expressed his willingness to be the mediator between the two countries.

 

However, the statement by the US States Department backed Indian government's stand on the valley, ‘While Kashmir is a bilateral issue for both parties to discuss, the Trump administration welcomes Pakistan and India sitting down and the United States stands ready to assist. We believe foundation for any successful dialogue between India and Pakistan is based on Pakistan taking sustained and irreversible steps against terrorists on its territory. These actions are in line with PM Khan’s stated commitments and, Pakistan’s international obligations. We will continue to support efforts that reduce tensions and create an environment conducive for dialogue. This first and foremost means tackling the menace of terrorism. As the President indicated, we stand ready to assist.’

Late night on Monday, the Ministry of External Affairs rebuffed Donald Trump's claim, that he has been asked by PM Modi to mediate the Kashmir issue with Pakistan, and explicitly stated that 'all outstanding issues with Pakistan are discussed only bilaterally' and that India has been consistent with its position in regards the neighbour. Rejecting a third-party mediation, MEA said that no such request has been made by PM Modi to the US President. The statement further reiterated India's stand on Pakistan that 'terror and talks don't hand in hand'