Jaishankar on Kashmir & China: ‘Waiting for Stolen Part’s Return’

London, UK: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that the Kashmir issue is mostly resolved, except for the return of the "stolen part" under Pakistan’s illegal occupation. Speaking at Chatham House in London, he emphasized that key steps such as the removal of Article 370, economic revival, and high voter turnout in elections have strengthened Jammu & Kashmir's integration with India.

On India-China relations, Jaishankar underscored that peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) is essential for stability. He noted that border disruptions since 2020 had affected ties, but diplomatic efforts, including high-level meetings between PM Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping, were aimed at restoring equilibrium.

Jaishankar also highlighted ongoing discussions on pilgrimages to Mount Kailash, direct flights, and water-sharing mechanisms, which were stalled after the 2020 tensions. Addressing India’s global standing, he spoke on the internationalization of the Rupee, BRICS cooperation, and India's strategic partnership with the UK.

Jaishankar’s March 4-9 visit to the UK and Ireland aims to strengthen bilateral ties across defense, trade, education, and diplomacy.