ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Pakistan’s Envoy to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, has said that peace between Pakistan and India cannot be achieved without resolving the Jammu and Kashmir issue, calling it the core of the conflict between the two neighbours.
In an exclusive interview with Turkish broadcaster TRT, Ambassador Sheikh dismissed the idea of accepting a so-called “new normal” in the region. “Any reference to a new normal is itself an absurdity. Such statements should be avoided,” he said, firmly rejecting attempts to downplay the ongoing Kashmir dispute.
He explained that the key obstacle to lasting peace in South Asia is the unresolved Kashmir issue. “The resolution of the Kashmir issue will continue to affect every effort for lasting peace,” he added, emphasizing that any ceasefire or peace initiative must also address the core problem.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s stance, Sheikh said that while Pakistan remains committed to peace, it will respond firmly to any provocation. “We are a peace-loving nation, and we prioritize the interests of the one and a half billion people of this region,” he said.
Ambassador Sheikh also appreciated the role the United States has played in reducing tensions between Pakistan and India. “The United States has always been proactive in reducing tensions in the region,” he stated.
In addition to the US, he acknowledged the support of friendly countries like Saudi Arabia and Turkey for their diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting peace in the region.
Sheikh noted that international interest in the Kashmir issue has increased recently, which, he believes, presents an important opportunity to work toward a lasting solution.
However, he stressed that global attention must remain steady. “The world’s attention to the Kashmir issue is encouraging, but this connection and continuity are extremely important,” he said.
The Pak Envoy’s remarks come at a time of renewed concern over regional stability, with Pakistan once again urging the global community to engage in resolving one of South Asia’s most serious and long-standing disputes.
