Official: Kashmir, terrorism, water top agenda for potential India-Pakistan talks

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has identified Kashmir, terrorism, and water resources as the key issues that would shape any future dialogue between Pakistan and India, should formal talks resume.

Speaking in an interview, Asif stressed the importance of addressing these long-standing disputes, particularly the Kashmir conflict, which has been at the heart of multiple wars between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, Caliber.Az reports. 

“Pakistan has suffered greatly from terrorism, and this is a golden opportunity for both countries to resolve the issue once and for all. The Kashmir dispute has been a flashpoint for decades, and now, with international support, we have a chance to tackle it,” he noted. 

Asif pointed to US President Donald Trump’s remarks on Kashmir as a diplomatic breakthrough. 

“Trump’s involvement in this matter has marked a historic turning point. He has made it clear that Kashmir must be part of the dialogue,” he noted.

Addressing the issue of terrorism, the minister called it a “cruel irony” that Pakistan—despite being a “major victim of terrorism” — is often accused of supporting it. He highlighted Pakistan’s recent military actions in response to what he described as provocations from India, saying they showcased the country’s defence capabilities.

“Our response to India’s actions demonstrated our military readiness. The impact has been clear in Indian media, military briefings, and political debates,” Asif said. “Pakistan has shown both restraint and strength.”

Regarding water disputes, Asif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, calling it a binding agreement that India cannot unilaterally suspend. He warned that any attempts by India to disrupt the treaty should not go unchecked.

Pakistan’s Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, which reportedly resulted in the downing of five Indian fighter jets and the interception of 77 drones. He claimed the operation sent a strong message about Pakistan’s preparedness and resolve, adding that apart from Israel, no other country supported India’s “aggressive actions”.

By Sabina Mammadli