Once again a verbal confrontation was seen between India and Pakistan in the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) held in Malaysia. India reacted strongly to the comments of Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, calling them completely baseless and inappropriate. India said that Pakistan has once again used the multilateral forum to spread lies, propaganda and state-sponsored misinformation. India also alleged that Pakistan was trying to divert the world’s attention from its record of cross-border terrorism.
In its reply, India also took a clear stand on Jammu-Kashmir, Ladakh, Indus Water Treaty and religious words used by Pakistan. India said that Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh were, are and will always be integral and inseparable parts of India. Pakistan has no right to comment on this issue. India also reiterated that Pakistan should focus on dismantling the terrorism infrastructure existing on its soil instead of misusing international forums.
What was said on Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh?
India bluntly said that Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh are integral and inseparable parts of India. India completely rejected any comment of Pakistan on this subject and said that Pakistan has no right to speak on this issue.
India’s stance on Indus Water Treaty
India clarified that its stand regarding the Indus Water Treaty has not changed. India said that the treaty has been kept on hold due to Pakistan’s support to cross-border terrorism, including the Pahalgam terror attack. The treaty will remain in abeyance until Pakistan ceases to support cross-border terrorism in a credible and irreversible manner.
Objection to the use of religious terminology
India also criticized Pakistan’s use of religious words like ‘Fitna al-Hindustan’. India said that the use of such terminology at the government level is an attempt to spread propaganda and divert attention from Pakistan’s internal problems.
What message did you give to Pakistan?
India said that Pakistan cannot hide its image in the world as a safe haven for global terrorist networks. Instead of blaming neighboring countries and misusing international forums, it should dismantle the terrorism infrastructure present on its soil. India reiterated that false allegations and propaganda will not change the truth and its stand on terrorism will remain as clear and strict as before.
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