On Wednesday, Pakistan and Iran highlighted the need to resolve the Kashmir issue through “dialogue and peaceful means.” The declaration was made in a joint statement issued during Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s visit to Pakistan.
On Kashmir Dispute
The statement mentioned that the issue should be resolved “based on the will of the people of that region and in accordance with international law.” Earlier, the Pakistani PM had mentioned the Kashmir issue during his talks with Raisi, but the Iranian President did not reciprocate the move.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif today met with Iranian President H.E. Dr. Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi in Islamabad. Ministers and senior officials from both sides were present in the meeting.
— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) April 22, 2024
The two leaders discussed the entire range of bilateral relations and exchanged views… pic.twitter.com/sSEv9Ai757
Sharif raised the topic during a joint press conference, saying, “I thank you (Raisi) and the people of Iran for raising your voice for Kashmir,” mentioning the issue alongside remarks on Gaza and Palestine. However, the Iranian President discussed his country’s support for the fight in Gaza without mentioning Kashmir.
Similarly, the Pakistani PM had earlier raised the issue with the Saudi Crown Prince and PM Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) during his visit to Riyadh. In the joint statement issued during his visit, the two sides highlighted the importance of resolving the Kashmir dispute to ensure peace and stability in the region.
However, New Delhi has long maintained that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan, and there is no question of outside interference or intervention in it. Given its good relations with India, Iran has usually avoided antagonising the Indian government, focusing on strengthening the bilateral ties instead. While the country called India out during the removal of Article 370, it has attempted to balance its stance on the issue delicately, as it enjoys close ties with Pakistan as well.
Raisi in Pakistan
Raisi was in Pakistan from 22 to 24 April at the invitation of Sharif. He is the first foreign leader to arrive in the country since the controversial elections that were held in February. A high-level delegation, including Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian and other cabinet members and senior officials, accompanied him.
During the visit, the two sides signed eight bilateral agreements, including the establishment of a joint special economic zone. The visit came amid heightened tensions in the Middle East amid the Israel-Gaza conflict. It also comes following the souring of Iran-Pakistan ties after the two countries launched airstrikes in each other’s territory.
Following the visit, the US warned Pakistan of the risk of sanctions after the country announced that it would strengthen its security and economic ties with Iran.