Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Ireland’s view, and that of the European Union, on the dispute between India and Pakistan over Jammu and Kashmir has not changed. Ireland and EU partners favour direct dialogue between India and Pakistan to resolve the situation in the disputed region peacefully. This should happen with due consideration to the interests of the Kashmiri people on both sides of the Line of Control. Indeed, the 1972 Simla Agreement between India and Pakistan makes it clear that the final status of Jammu and Kashmir is to be settled by peaceful means.

I am fully aware of the difficulties in this dispute and retain the sincere hope that India and Pakistan will work together to resolve the situation in a peaceful manner, in accordance with the principles of the UN Charter.

I welcome the fact that the ceasefire along the Line of Control has held since February 2021, following a joint statement issued by India and Pakistan, and that this ceasefire is observed by the United Nations Military Observer Group.

The August 2019 statement by the Secretary General of the United Nations concerning Jammu and Kashmir called for restraint and referred to relevant UN Security Council resolutions. This remains fully relevant today.

The Embassies of Ireland in India and Türkiye, the latter of which is accredited to Pakistan, continue to actively monitor developments in relation to Jammu and Kashmir, in close consultation with our EU partners.