Jaishankar’s UK Visit
India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, is on an official visit to the UK, where he participated in an event at the Chatham House think tank. During the session, he addressed multiple topics, including Kashmir and former US President Donald Trump’s policies.
Pakistani Journalist’s Question
A Pakistani journalist attempted to challenge Jaishankar by stating that India had “illegally occupied” Kashmir, and people there were resisting it. The journalist further asked whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s friendship with Donald Trump could help resolve the Kashmir issue.
Jaishankar’s Strong Response
Jaishankar firmly countered the journalist’s claims and outlined India’s four-step approach to resolving the Kashmir issue:
- Abrogation of Article 370: This was the first step, which removed Jammu & Kashmir’s special status.
- Economic and Development Initiatives: The second step was fostering growth, infrastructure, and social justice in the region.
- Successful Elections with High Voter Turnout: The third step ensured democratic processes and public participation.
- Reclaiming Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK): Jaishankar asserted that the final step would be the return of PoK to India, resolving the Kashmir issue entirely.
Audience Reaction
Jaishankar’s confident and strategic response was well-received, demonstrating India’s firm stance on Kashmir and its diplomatic clarity on the issue.
