The United Nations (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon is deeply concerned over the significant increase in tensions between India and Pakistan.
Moon expressed concern in the wake of the recent developments, in particular the reported cease-fire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) following an attack on an Indian army base in Uri on 18 September, said a statement issued by spokesperson of UN Sec Gen posted on its website.
India and Pakistan are engaged in continuous exchange of gunfire along LoC and International Border in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan has said that two of army rangers were killed in cross border firing while as Indian army has said that it carried out “surgical strikes” across LoC.
“The Secretary-General urges both sides to exercise maximum restraint and take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation,” the spokesperson said.
Moon called on the Governments of Pakistan and India to address their outstanding issues, including regarding Kashmir, peacefully through diplomacy and dialogue.
“His good offices are available, if accepted by both sides,” the spokesperson added.