AMN /
Russia has made it clear that differences between New Delhi and Islamabad on the Kashmir issue should be resolved bilaterally in accordance with the provisions of the Shimla Agreement of 1972 and Lahore Declaration of 1999.
Moscow also said that its position on the matter remains principled and unchanged. Russian Foreign Office said, like the international community, Russia is also interested in good neighbourly relations between India and Pakistan. It said, this would directly contribute to regional stability and security, and the development of mutually beneficial trade and economic ties.
Yesterday, India had denied Pakistan Foreign Office claim that Russian President Vladimir Putin had offered to mediate between India and Pakistan. Responding to media query, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Gopal Baglay said, there was no offer of mediation by Russia. He said, Russia is very well aware of India’s consistent position to address all outstanding issues with Pakistan bilaterally in an environment free of terrorism and violence.
Earlier, Pakistan Foreign Office had claimed that Mr. Putin had offered to mediate during his recent meeting with Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif at SCO Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan.