UK Foreign Secretary Addresses India-Pakistan Ceasefire and Regional Tensions

LONDON: David Lammy, the British Foreign Secretary, has acknowledged the welcome but precarious nature of the ceasefire between India and Pakistan. He affirmed that the UK government is collaborating with global partners to reinforce the agreement.

Lammy is in Pakistan for discussions with Pakistani leaders on various critical matters, including the recent conflict between India and Pakistan.

During a conversation from Islamabad, where he engaged with Pakistani government officials, he conveyed his thoughts.

Regarding inquiries about assertions of Indian aggression towards Pakistan, the Foreign Secretary stated: “We have expressed clearly that the terrorist incidents were appalling. Our thoughts are with the families of those affected by these incidents. The UK government is resolute in its condemnation of terrorism in all its manifestations. I extended my condolences.”

The UK Foreign Secretary stated that he addressed the issue of terrorism in Pakistan. He commented: “Here in Pakistan, we have addressed this. Pakistan has also experienced terrorism recently. The priority has been to ease tensions and create an environment of trust between the two nations. We must address terrorist threats and stop militancy.”

Responding to a question, he indicated that the UK maintains friendly relations with both countries. “We have strong ties with both nations. We are collaborating with our international allies.”

The Foreign Secretary verified that the Indian government had not presented any evidence to the UK regarding accusations against Pakistan.

MP Lammy clarified: “I wouldn’t anticipate India sharing its national security information with me. Our objective is to support allies in maintaining a lasting ceasefire while recognizing the need to combat terrorism. There are concerns about groups involved in causing harm. The origin of this was the appalling terrorism threat.”

He lauded the leadership of both nations as “impressive,” demonstrating statesmanship in de-escalating tensions and reaching a ceasefire agreement.

He added: “It’s imperative that this ceasefire endures. It is vulnerable. My visit concerns this and other subjects. I am the first Foreign Secretary to visit in four years. I will discuss significant connections and friendships between our nations, trade, cultural exchange, and our support for Pakistan on numerous fronts.”

Lammy recognized the direct impact of India-Pakistan tensions on the Indian and Pakistani communities in the UK. He commended the contributions of these communities and local authorities in managing the situation.

He concluded: “There were concerns, but we have coexisting communities in the UK. We have seen distressing visuals from India and Pakistan, but these communities responded responsibly.”

He disclosed that the British High Commission staff received over 2,000 calls “from people concerned about Pakistan-India tensions, reflecting the seriousness of the situation among British-Pakistanis. Staff in India and Pakistan have supported Britons by arranging additional flights.