Sartaj Aziz, Ban Ki moon discuss situation along LoC

ISLAMABAD: Adviser to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs, Mr. Sartaj Aziz, spoke to United Nations Secretary-General H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon, on telephone last night, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement issued here on Sunday.

They discussed the situation along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir and the Working Boundary between Pakistan and India. Earlier, on 11 October, the Adviser had addressed a letter to the Secretary-General on the situation arising from the ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) and the Working Boundary by the Indian armed forces over the past weeks.

The Adviser briefed the Secretary-General on the frequency and intensity of the unprovoked and indiscriminate firing and shelling by the Indian forces and the resulting civilian casualties, injuries and damage to property.

The Adviser noted that Pakistan was fully united and determined to thwart any aggression, and had responded to India’s provocations with utmost restraint and responsibility. India should be advised to adopt a mature and reasonable approach, and refrain its armed forces from acting irrationally.

The Secretary-General reiterated his concern on the escalation of violence along the Line of Control and deplored the loss of lives. He emphasized the importance of both sides taking necessary steps to de-escalate the situation and resolve all outstanding issues through negotiations.