United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is encouraged by Pakistanand India’s decision to strictly observe all agreements on a ceasefirealong the Line of Control (LoC) and hopes that the “positive step” would“provide an opportunity for further dialogue”, said Secretary General’sspokesperson Stephane Dujarric on Thursday.
“The Secretary-general is encouraged by the joint statement issued by themilitaries of Pakistan and India on their agreement to observing theceasefire at the Line of Control in Kashmir and engaging through theestablished mechanism. He hopes that this positive step would provide anopportunity for further dialogue,” said Dujarric during a daily briefing.
On Thursday, Pakistan India released a joint statement saying that theyhave held discussions regarding establishing a mechanism for hotlinecontact among both nations. Both sides also agreed to a ceasefire along theLine of Control (LoC) starting from February 25.
Director Generals of Military Operations of Pakistan and India alsoreviewed the current situation across the Line of Control (LoC) and othersectors “in a free, frank and cordial atmosphere”.
“Both sides agreed for strict observance of all agreements, understandingsand cease firing along the Line of Control and all other sectors witheffect from midnight of February 24/25,” the joint statement said.
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The United States also welcomed Pakistan and India’s decision, calling it a“positive step” towards greater peace and stability in South Asia.
“United States welcomes the joint statement between India and Pakistan,that the two countries have agreed to maintain strict observance of aceasefire along the Line of Control starting on February 25. This is apositive step towards greater peace and stability in South Asia, which isin our shared interest and we encourage both countries to keep buildingupon this progress,” White House spokesperson Jen Psaki said.
