S. Jaishankar Responds to Marco Rubio’s Call for De-escalation Between India and Pakistan
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in a conversation with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday morning, responding to his call for de-escalation amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan. Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s commitment to a “measured and responsible” approach, a stance that has consistently characterized the country’s foreign policy.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar stated, “Had a conversation with US @SecRubio this morning. India’s approach has always been measured and responsible and remains so.”
The call came as both countries were involved in heightened military activity, with the US attempting to mediate and encourage de-escalation. According to the US Department of State’s statement, Secretary Rubio emphasized the need for both India and Pakistan to identify ways to de-escalate the ongoing conflict and re-establish direct communication to prevent further miscalculations. He also extended US support in facilitating “productive discussions” to avert future disputes between the two nations.
On Thursday, Rubio had also expressed condolences for the 26 victims of the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which took place on April 22. During that call, Rubio reiterated the United States’ commitment to working with India in its fight against terrorism.
In his diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions, Rubio also reached out to Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, as well as Army Chief General Asim Munir, urging them to seek ways to bring an end to the conflict.
The United States has adopted a balanced approach in the India-Pakistan conflict, acknowledging both nations as strategic partners while urging both sides to end the hostilities. Rubio has been actively engaged in discussions with the leaders of both India and Pakistan following the rapid escalation of military confrontations in recent days.
The escalation followed India’s precision strikes on nine terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under “Operation Sindoor” launched in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack. Since then, both nations have exchanged air strikes, further intensifying the conflict.
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