The United States

Concern Regarding India-Pakistan Tensions

https://www.state.gov/secretary/remarks/2019/02/289733.htm

Press Statement, Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State, Washington, DC, February 26, 2019

Following Indian counter-terrorism actions on February 26, I spoke with Indian Minister of External Affairs Swaraj to emphasize our close security partnership and shared goal of maintaining peace and security in the region. I also spoke to Pakistani Foreign Minister Qureshi to underscore the priority of de-escalating current tensions by avoiding military action, and the urgency of Pakistan taking meaningful action against terrorist groups operating on its soil. I expressed to both Ministers that we encourage India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, and avoid escalation at any cost. I also encouraged both Ministers to prioritize direct communication and avoid further military activity.

United Kingdom

Press Release

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/foreign-secretary-calls-with-indian-and-pakistan-foreign-ministers

The Foreign Secretary's call with Indian and Pakistan Foreign Ministers

On 25 February, the Foreign Secretary had calls with Indian Minister of External Affairs, Sushma Swaraj and the Pakistani Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shah Mehmood Qureshi.

Foreign & Commonwealth Office and The Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt MP

During his calls with the Indian Minister of External Affairs, Sushma Swaraj, and the Pakistan Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Pulwama on 14 February. He offered his condolences to all those affected. The Foreign Secretary highlighted the UK’s concern about the enduring threat to regional stability from terrorism. He encouraged Pakistan and India to improve cooperation and find diplomatic solutions that will create greater stability and trust in the region. An FCO spokesperson said: ‘The Foreign Secretary reiterated the UK’s commitment to working with both India and Pakistan, as well as international partners at the UN, to ensure that those responsible for the attack are held to account’. The UK has been, and continues to be, in close contact at senior levels in both countries and will be promoting international efforts to tackle the threats of terrorism and improve regional stability.

France

Statement by the acting spokesperson of the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Paris, 27 February 2019

https://in.ambafrance.org/Situation-at-the-Indo-Pakistan-border

Situation at the Indo-Pakistan Border

Military operations were conducted this morning at the Indo-Pakistan border. France is concerned about the deterioration of the situation. It calls on Pakistan and India for de-escalation. The Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs is closely monitoring the situation and our embassies in New Delhi and Islamabad are mobilised to be at the service of our citizens.

Russia

President Putin speaks to PM Modi, New Delhi, February 28, 2019

https://mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/31104/President+Putin+speaks+to+PM+Modi

The President of the Russian Federation H.E. Mr. Vladimir V. Putin called Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on phone today. President Putin expressed his deep condolences on the Pulwama terrorist attack. He also conveyed solidarity of the people of the Russian Federation with the people of India in the fight against terrorism. The Prime Minister thanked President Putin for Russia’s steadfast support for India’s efforts to protect its interests against cross-border terror attacks, and renewed India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in countering terrorism as a pillar of privileged and special strategic partnership. Both leaders agreed that the concerned should stop all support to terrorism. Both the leaders also agreed that the growing cooperation between the two countries will take their Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership from strength to strength.

President Putin reiterated the invitation to the Prime Minister to attend the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok later this year. The Prime Minister welcomed the invitation and underscored the significance of growing economic cooperation, including in the Russian Far East, between the two countries.

Press service/Speeches by the official representative/Comments/, 27 February 201914:35
http://www.mid.ru/en/kommentarii/-/asset_publisher/2MrVt3CzL5sw/content/id/3547930

Comment by the Information and Press Department on escalating tensions in India-Pakistan relations

We express grave concern over the escalating situation along the Line of Control between India and Pakistan and the surge in tensions in relations between the two states which are Russia’s friends. We call on both sides to show restraint and redouble efforts to resolve existing problems by political and diplomatic means. We are ready to continue support for strengthening the counter-terrorism capacity of New Delhi and Islamabad.

European Union

Statement by the High Representative/Vice-President Federica Mogherini on the recent escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan, Bruxelles, 27/02/2019 - 15:15, UNIQUE ID: 190227_17

https://eeas.europa.eu/headquarters/headquarters-Homepage/58829/statement-high-representativevice-president-federica-mogherini-recent-escalation-tensions_en

Statement by the High Representative/Vice-President Federica Mogherini on the recent escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan

Following the recent terrorist attack in Pulwama, tensions along the 'Line of Control' between India and Pakistan have escalated militarily during the last days. This has the potential to lead to serious and dangerous consequences for the two countries and the wider region. We expect both countries to now exercise utmost restraint and avoid any further escalation of the situation. To this end, the resumption of diplomatic contacts at political level and implementation of urgent measures by both sides is vital.

Terrorism can never be justified. I spoke a few days ago by telephone with the Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, to emphasise the need to continue to address terrorism, including clear and targeted actions related to all forms of terrorist activity. The European Union will remain in contact with both countries and will continue to closely monitor the situation.

Iran

Iran Ready to Help Resolve Pakistan-India Conflict Peacefully

http://en.mfa.ir/index.aspx?fkeyid=&siteid=3&pageid=37004&newsview=559788

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has expressed regret over the recent clashes between India and Pakistan, and announced the Islamic Republic’s preparedness to contribute to peaceful settlement of differences between the two Asian states.

In a phone conversation with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Wednesday, Iran’s top diplomat called on both India and Pakistan to show self-restraint and sit for talks over their disputes as soon as possible.

The Iranian foreign minister is also expected to hold a phone conversation with his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj on the recent clashes.

Nepal

Press Release

https://mofa.gov.np/press-release-9/

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Nepal, Kathmandu, 27 February 2019

The Government of Nepal is concerned about the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the terrorist attack on security convoy in Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir on February 14, 2019. It may be recalled that Nepal immediately condemned the heinous terrorist act.

As the current Chair of SAARC, Nepal, while underlining the importance of peace and stability in South Asia, calls on both sides to exercise utmost restraint and not engage in actions that would threaten peace and security in the region. It also urges them to seek solution through dialogue and peaceful means in order to ease tension and normalize the situation.

Sri Lanka

Statement on Pulwama Terrorist Attack and Subsequent Air Strikes by India on Balakot
Media Releases | Wed, 27 Feb 2019

https://www.mfa.gov.lk/statement-on-pulwama-terrorist-attack-and-subsequent-air-strikes-by-india-on-balakot/

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Colombo, 27 February 2019

Sri Lanka is deeply concerned about the recent developments following the brutal terrorist attack on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Pulwama, India. As a country that has suffered from the scourge of terrorism for nearly three decades, Sri Lanka has unequivocally condemned this terrorist attack in Pulwama and stands firmly by the fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

Sri Lanka strongly supports peace and stability in the South Asia region and all endeavours towards the diffusion of tensions, including the resolution of bilateral problems through dialogue and building confidence. In this context, Sri Lanka requests India and Pakistan to act in a manner that ensures the security, peace and stability of the entire region.

Thailand

Press Release: Statement on India – Pakistan Tensions

http://www.mfa.go.th/main/en/news3/6886/100421-Statement-on-India-%E2%80%93-Pakistan-Tensions.html
Mar 01, 2019 10:26:59

Thailand is deeply concerned over the rising tensions between India and Pakistan in the wake of the terrorist attack on 14 February 2019 in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir resulting in the loss of lives and injuries, and disrupting air travelling to and from the region in a significant way.

Thailand urges India and Pakistan to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from any action that may further aggravate the situation.

Thailand calls upon both sides to work towards a peaceful solution to their conflict through a constructive dialogue in order to maintain peace and stability in the region.

Indonesia

Press Statement on The Situation in Jammu-Kashmir, 28 February 2019

https://www.kemlu.go.id/en/berita/Pages/Press-Statement-on-The-Situation-in-Jammu-Kashmir.aspx

Jakarta, 27 February 2019

Indonesia follows with concern recent developments in relations between India and Pakistan on the issue of Jammu-Kashmir. Indonesia calls on all relevant parties to exercise maximum self-restraint, take immediate measures to reduce tensions, and prevent the escalation of conflict in Jammu-Kashmir. Considering the importance of the two countries in South Asia, Indonesia hopes the two countries would continue to be part of efforts in creating a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

China

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang's Regular Press Conference on February 26, 2019

https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/2511_665403/t1641180.shtml

Q: According to reports, the Indian air force today carried out some air strikes against terrorist forces inside Pakistan across the Line of Control. What is China's reaction to that? India is saying that this is a non-military attack because it was carried out not against the military but against the terrorist forces who had attacked India and killed Indian soldiers. What's your comment?

A: India and Pakistan are both important countries in South Asia. A harmonious relationship between the two are crucial to regional peace, stability and development and serves the interests of India and Pakistan fundamentally. We hope the two sides will exercise restraint and take actions that will help stabilize situation in the region and improve bilateral relations instead of doing the opposite.
You mentioned that India said their operation was against terrorist forces. I would like to point out that terrorism is a global challenge that calls for cooperation between countries so as to create enabling conditions and a favorable atmosphere for necessary international cooperation.

Q: Yesterday the Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi made a telephone call to the Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and briefed him about the latest situation in the region in wake of the attack in Indian-held Kashmir. Do you have more information to share with us?

A: As you said, yesterday State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a telephone conversation with Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi at request. You may have noticed that State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi listened carefully to Foreign Minister Qureshi's briefing on the relevant situation and the propositions of the Pakistani side. He also reiterated that China supports the Pakistani and Indian sides in properly resolving the issue through dialogue as soon as possible to avoid the escalation of tensions.

We also hope that Pakistan and India can jointly advance counter-terrorism cooperation and safeguard peace, tranquility and stability in South Asia.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang's Regular Press Conference on February 27, 2019

https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/2511_665403/t1641502.shtml

Q: In wake of intrusion into its airspace and violations of its territorial sovereignty by Indian air force yesterday, Pakistan has called upon the international community to condemn Indian aggression which has violated the UN Charter, support de-escalation, urge India to end its suppression in Indian-occupied Kashmir, and promote peace and stability in the region through engaging in dialogue. It also said that onus of escalation is with India. What is China's comment?

A: Actually I answered a relevant question yesterday and made clear the Chinese side's principled position.
We have noted recent developments as well as the positions made clear by India and Pakistan. As I said yesterday, India and Pakistan are both important countries in South Asia. We hope the two sides will bear in mind the peace and stability in the region, exercise restraint, step up dialogue and properly resolve relevant issue, so as to safeguard the fundamental interests of their countries, maintain peace and stability in the region and refrain from actions that might lead to further escalation of tensions.

Q: Just have a follow-up question on Pakistan and India. Pakistan just said that it has shot down two Indian military planes today in Kashmir. As a neighboring country, is China concerned about this move by Pakistan?

A: Like I said when taking the previous question raised by APP, regarding the recent developments which have drawn the attention of the international community, China's position is clear-cut. Our concern is that India and Pakistan, two important countries in South Asia, will maintain good neighborliness and that South Asia will maintain peace and stability. So we hope both sides could exercise restraint, take measures conducive to promoting dialogue and work actively to contribute to the lasting peace and stability in South Asia.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang's Regular Press Conference on February 28, 2019

https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/2511_665403/t1641847.shtml

Q: Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan said during a televised broadcast to the nation on February 27 that his country does not want to see further deterioration of the situation and is ready to cooperate with India on the investigation of the attack in India-controlled Kashmir. He said that war does no good to either side and invited India to come to the negotiating table to resolve the issue. Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj also said that her country does not want to see an escalation of the situation and will act with responsibility and restraint. What is your comment? What can China do to alleviate tension between India and Pakistan?
A: China always believes that all countries' sovereignty and territorial integrity shall be respected, and we do not wish to see any violation against the UN Charter and the norms of international law. The Chinese side is concerned about the escalating tension between India and Pakistan. As you may have noticed, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed China's concerns during his talk with the Indian Foreign Minister in Wuzhen and his phone call with the Pakistani Foreign Minister. We urge India and Pakistan to exercise maximum restraint, engage in dialogue at an early date, effectively manage the situation, and jointly uphold regional peace and stability.

China has been in close communication with both India and Pakistan on the current situation and making efforts to promote peace and facilitate talks. Like you said, we noted that neither Pakistan nor India wants to see the deterioration or escalation of the situation. We encourage the two sides to meet each other half way and resolve the issue through dialogue. China will continue to play a constructive role in this regard.

Q: Another question about Pakistan and India. The Foreign Ministry has released a statement about a phone call that State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held with the Pakistani Foreign Minister Qureshi last night. I was wondering if you could offer more details about the phone call? The statement said that the Pakistani foreign minister shared the news and developments of the situation. Can you elaborate on what those might be?

A: China released information on this phone call very timely last night, or more accurately, early this morning. In this urgent phone call, the Pakistani Foreign Minister briefed State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the current situation and the Pakistani government's assessment and considerations. He also expressed Pakistan's hope that China will continue to play an active role in easing tensions. State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated China's view on the current situation. We are indeed concerned about the current tensions in India-Pakistan relations. State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi reiterated China's hope that India and Pakistan could exercise restraint and earnestly fulfill their commitment to preventing escalation. He stressed explicitly that sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected.

State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi also talked about China's recent efforts in promoting peace and facilitating talks. You may read our press release for more information.

Q: Yesterday, one pilot of the Indian Air Force was captured in the Pakistani territory, and the Indian government has requested that he should be treated, according to the Geneva Convention, as prisoners of war, and should be returned to India. So how does China comment on this?

A: Since yesterday, the Indian and Pakistani media and netizens have voiced some different views on this issue. As for what really happened, we shall not indulge ourselves in making more comments.

But I would like to reiterate that as India and Pakistan are both important countries in South Asia, it is very important for them to keep a harmonious relationship and jointly uphold regional peace and stability. The escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan following the recent events is not what we wish to see and is a cause of great concern to us. We hope that India and Pakistan will fulfill their commitment of preventing further deterioration or escalation and come back to the negotiating table at an early date, so that the situation can be effectively brought under control and regional peace and stability will be restored, which serves the interests of all countries.

Japan

The Situation in Kashmir, Statement by Foreign Minister Taro Kono, February 28, 2019

https://www.mofa.go.jp/press/release/press4e_002352.html

1. Japan is concerned about the deteriorating situation in Kashmir.

2. Japan strongly condemns the terrorist attack on 14 February 2019 for which the Islamic extremist group “Jaish-e-Mohammad” claimed responsibility. Japan urges Pakistan to take stronger measures to counter terrorism.

3. In response to the mounting tension due to the operations since 26 February between the Indian Air Force and the Pakistan Air Force, Japan strongly urges India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and stabilize the situation through dialogue.

Australia

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, India-Pakistan tensions over terrorist attack, Media release, 26 February 2019

https://foreignminister.gov.au/releases/Pages/2019/mp_mr_190226a.aspx?w=E6pq%2FUhzOs%2BE7V9FFYi1xQ%3D%3D

The Australian government is concerned about relations between India and Pakistan following the horrific terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 14 February, which Australia has condemned. India’s Foreign Secretary has stated that India has now conducted operations targeting terrorist groups based in Pakistan.

Pakistan must take urgent and meaningful action against terrorist groups in its territory, including Jaish-e-Mohammed which has claimed responsibility for the 14 February bombing, and Lashkar-e-Taiba. Pakistan must do everything possible to implement its own proscription of Jaish-e-Mohammed. It can no longer allow extremist groups the legal and physical space to operate from its territory. These steps would make a substantial contribution to easing tensions and resolving the underlying causes of conflict.

Australia urges both sides to exercise restraint, avoid any action which would endanger peace and security in the region and engage in dialogue to ensure that these issues are resolved peacefully.

Turkey

Phone Call with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan- 28.02.2019

https://www.tccb.gov.tr/en/speeches-statements/558/102220/phone-call-with-pakistani-prime-minister-imran-khan

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan spoke by phone with Prime Minister Imran Khan of Pakistan. The recent tensions between Pakistan and India as well as the latest developments in the region were discussed during the phone call.

Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu says Turkey 'willing' to contribute to easing tension between two countries

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/politics/turkey-calls-for-calm-between-pakistan-india/1404374

Ankara is “concerned” over the prevailing tension between Pakistan and India, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Wednesday. "We are concerned over this tension. We want to call for common sense and calm between the parties. Steps that will escalate the tension should be avoided," Cavusoglu told reporters in the capital Ankara. Cavusoglu's remarks came after Pakistan and India claims that they have shot down each other’s fighter jets.

He also said the main issue between the countries was the Kashmir issue and this issue must be solved "as soon as possible" within the framework of the international law. "This is also important for people of Kashmir," he added. "Turkey is always willing to contribute to easing tension and to resolving these issues, including Kashmir," Cavusoglu said.

Cavusoglu said he had a phone contact with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi, but not with any Indian official yet. "We are open to dialogue and of course we want to discuss this issue with India," he added.

United Nations Security Council

https://www.un.org/securitycouncil/sanctions/1267/aq_sanctions_list/summaries/entity/jaish-i-mohammed

Jaish-i-Mohammed, 7 October 2011

In accordance with paragraph 36 of resolution 2161 (2014), the Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee makes accessible a narrative summary of reasons for the listing for individuals, groups, undertakings and entities included in the Al-Qaida Sanctions List.

Reason for Listing

Jaish-i-Mohammed was listed on 17 October 2001 pursuant to paragraph 8(c) of resolution 1333 (2000) as being associated with Al-Qaida, Usama bin Laden or the Taliban for “participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, preparing or perpetrating of acts or activities by, in conjunction with, under the name of, on behalf or in support of”, “supplying, selling or transferring arms and related materiel to” or “otherwise supporting acts or activities of” Al-Qaida (QDe.004), Usama bin Laden and the Taliban.

Additional Information

Jaish-i-Mohammed (JiM) is an extremist group based in Pakistan founded by Masood Azhar upon his release from prison in India in 1999 in exchange for 155 hostages held on an Indian Airlines flight that had been hijacked to Kandahar, Afghanistan. The 1994 Harakat ul-Mujahidin / HUM (QDe.008) kidnappings of American and British nationals in New Delhi and the July 1995 kidnappings of tourists in Kashmir were two of several previous efforts to free Azhar. Azhar formed JiM with support from Usama bin Laden (deceased), the Taliban, and several other extremist organizations.

On 1 October 2001, JiM claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on the Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly building in Srinagar, Kashmir, that killed at least 31 persons; it later denied the claim. JiM and Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (QDe.118) were implicated in the 13 December 2001 attack on the Indian Parliament that killed nine and injured 18.

JiM has several hundred armed supporters located in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, and in India’s southern Kashmir and Doda regions. Supporters are mostly from Pakistan and Kashmir, but also include Afghans and Arab veterans of the Afghan war. Most of JiM's cadre and material resources are drawn from the militant groups Harakat-ul Jihad Islami (HUJI) (QDe.130) and HUM.

JiM is based in Peshawar and Muzaffarabad, Pakistan, but members conduct terrorist activities primarily in Kashmir. They also co-operate with the Taliban in attacks against Afghan government and International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) targets in Afghanistan. JiM maintained training camps in Afghanistan until the fall of the Taliban regime in 2001.

JiM has had close ties with both Al-Qaida (QDe.004), and the Taliban. Usama bin Laden is believed to have provided funds to JiM. In anticipation of asset seizures by the Pakistani Government, JiM has withdrawn funds from bank accounts and invested in businesses such as commodity trading, real estate and the production of consumer goods. JiM members have also set up two organizations registered in Pakistan as humanitarian aid agencies: Al-Akhtar Trust International (QDe.121) and Alkhair Trust. JiM hoped to give the impression that the two new organizations were separate entities and sought to use them as a way to deliver arms and ammunition to its members under the guise of providing humanitarian aid to refugees and other needy groups.

Related listed individuals and entities:

Al-Qaida (QDe.004), listed on 6 October 2001;
Al Rashid Trust (QDe.005), listed on 6 October 2001;
Harakat ul-Mujahidin / HUM (QDe.008), listed on 6 October 2001;
Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (QDe.118), listed on 2 May 2005;
Al-Akhtar Trust International (QDe.121), listed on 17 August 2005;
Harakat-ul Jihad Islami (QDe.130), listed on 6 August 2010;
Abdur Rehman (QDi.309), listed on 14 March 2012.

Joint Communique of the 16th Meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Russian Federation, the Republic of India and the People’s Republic of China, Zhejiang February 27, 2019

https://www.mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/3109/Joint_Communique_of_the_16th_Meeting

1. We, the Foreign Ministers of the Russian Federation, the Republic of India and the People’s Republic of China held our 16th meeting in Zhejiang, China on 27 February 2019 and discussed international and regional issues of common concern.
2. The Ministers recalled that the Russia-India-China (RIC) Informal Summit in Buenos Aires in November 2018 was an important milestone, during which the three leaders agreed to strengthen coordination, build consensus, enhance cooperation and promote world peace, stability and development. The Informal Summit imparted fresh impetus into the trilateral cooperation. The Ministers reiterated their commitment to work together to further their cooperation on important issues discussed at the Informal Summit and take the trilateral cooperation to a new level.

3. The Ministers reiterated the importance they attached to the Russia-India-China trilateral format as a platform to foster closer dialogue and practical cooperation in identified areas. As countries with significant international and regional influence, the three countries stand ready to expand mutual consultations and cooperation on international and regional issues of mutual interest in the spirit of mutual respect, respect for sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, unity, mutual understanding and trust. The common development and close cooperation of the three countries is conducive for world peace and stability and promoting global growth.

4. The Ministers reiterated their firm commitment to multilateralism and the purposes and principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations. The Ministers recognized the need for reform of multilateral institutions. They recalled the 2005 World Summit Outcome document and reaffirmed the need for a comprehensive reform of the UN, including its Security Council, with a view to making it more representative, effective and efficient, and to increase the representation of the developing countries so that it can adequately respond to global challenges. Foreign Ministers of China and Russia reiterate the importance they attach to the status of India in international affairs and support its aspiration to play a greater role in the United Nations.

5. The Ministers supported the G20’s leading role in global economic governance and international economic cooperation. They expressed their readiness to enhance communication and cooperation including through G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and other means, through consultations and mutual support in areas of respective interest. They looked forward to positive outcomes from this year’s Osaka Summit.

6. The Ministers reiterated the importance of BRICS cooperation and commended the fruitful results of the Johannesburg Summit. The three countries will work actively to implement the outcomes of the successive BRICS summits, deepen BRICS strategic partnership, strengthen cooperation in the three pillar areas of economy, political and security cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges.

7. The Ministers underlined that the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is an important, effective mechanism in promoting multilateral political, security, economic and people-to-people exchanges in the region, plays an important role in maintaining regional peace and stability and promoting prosperity and development of its member states. The Ministers welcomed the outcomes of the Qingdao Summit held in June 2018, which emphasized inter alia, the principle of "Shanghai Spirit”. The Ministers reiterated necessity to expand cooperation between SCO member states, observers and dialogue partners. They called for broadening contacts and interactions between SCO and international and regional organizations especially with United Nations Organization and its specialized bodies, as well as with ASEAN and others.

8. The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to equal, indivisible common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security. The Ministers reiterated the importance of the role and the need for closer cooperation and consultations in various regional fora and organizations such as the East Asia Summit (EAS), ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus), Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM)，the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) and the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD), to jointly contribute to regional peace, stability, sustainable development and prosperity.

9. The Ministers strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. They called on the international community to strengthen UN-led global counter-terrorism cooperation by fully implementing the relevant UN Security Council (UNSC) resolutions and the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and the principles of international law, while respecting sovereignty and independence of all states, and expeditiously finalizing and adopting the UN Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the earliest. They reiterated that states and their competent agencies play a central role in both national and international counter-terrorism efforts. They also stressed that terrorist groups cannot be supported and used in political and geopolitical goals.

10. The Ministers stressed that those committing, orchestrating, inciting or supporting terrorist acts must be held accountable and brought to justice in accordance with existing international commitments on countering terrorism, including the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the FATF standards, international treaties, including on the basis of the principle "extradite or prosecute” and relevant international and bilateral obligations and in compliance with applicable domestic legislation.

11. The Ministers underscored the importance of the three international drug control convention and other relevant legal instruments which constitute the cornerstone of the drug control system. They reiterated their commitment to address the world drug problem, on a basis of common and shared responsibility. The Ministers expressed their determination to counter the spread of illicit drug trafficking in opiates from Afghanistan, which poses a serious threat to regional security and stability.

12. The Ministers believed that the United Nations should play a key role on security-related issues in the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) and welcomed adoption by the UN GA 73-d session of the resolutions "Developments in the Field of Information and Telecommunications in the Context of International Security” and "Countering the use of information and communications technologies for criminal purposes”. They agreed that the UN has a key role in developing universally accepted norms of responsible state behavior in the use of ICTs to ensure a peaceful, secure, open, cooperative, stable, orderly, accessible and equitable ICT environment. They recognized the need for a universal and binding regulatory instrument on combating the criminal use of ICTs in the UN framework and reiterated that all countries should participate in the evolution and functioning of the Internet and its governance on an equal footing. It is important to ensure the inclusiveness and openness of relevant international processes and the fair distribution of basic internet resources, and to build a multilateral, democratic and transparent Internet governance system.They remained committed to working together for the peaceful, secure, open, cooperative and orderly use of ICTs.

13. Emphasizing the indivisible nature of peace and security, the Ministers stressed that current challenges to international security require urgent efforts to promote global stability. Such efforts should be based on the principles of consensus and respect for interests and concerns of all interested States.

14. Prevention of arms race in outer space is a key factor for maintaining international peace and security. The Ministers expressed their serious concern about the possibility of an arms race in outer space and of outer space turning into an arena for military confrontation. They reaffirmed that the prevention of an arms race, including of the placement of weapons in outer space, would avert a grave danger for international peace and security. The Ministers emphasised the paramount importance of strict compliance with the existing legal regime providing for the peaceful use of outer space. They also reaffirmed that there is a need to consolidate and reinforce this regime. They welcomed the meeting of the Group of Governmental Experts to discuss possible elements for a legally binding instrument on the prevention of an arms race in outer space including inter alia, on the prevention of the placement of weapons in outer space. They stressed that practical transparency and confidence building measures may also contribute towards non-placement of weapons in outer space. They reiterated that the Conference on Disarmament, as the single multilateral disarmament negotiating forum, has the primary role in the negotiation of a multilateral agreement or agreements, as appropriate, on the prevention of an arms race in outer space in all its aspects. They supported the UN Group of Governmental Experts to consider and make recommendations on the substantial elements of the above-mentioned internationally binding instrument.

15. They advocated the compliance and strengthening of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production and Stockpiling of Bacteriological (Biological) and Toxin Weapons and on their Destruction (BWC), including by the adoption of the Protocol to the Convention with the effective verification mechanism. To address the threat of chemical and biological terrorism, they supported and emphasized the need for launching multilateral negotiations on an international convention for the suppression of acts of chemical and biological terrorism within the Conference on Disarmament.

16. The Ministers reiterated support for the Government and people of Afghanistan in their efforts to achieve an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace and reconciliation process and to build a peaceful, secure, united, sovereign, democratic, stable, prosperous and inclusive country that exists in harmony with its neighbours. The Ministers reaffirmed their support to the efforts of the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces in fighting terrorist organizations.

17. The Ministers stressed the importance of multilateral interactions on the Afghanistan issue, including the SCO, the Moscow Format, the Heart of Asia-Istanbul Process, the Kabul Process and the Regional Economic Cooperation Conference on Afghanistan. They welcomed the successful holding of a meeting of the SCO-Afghanistan Contact Group at the level of deputy foreign ministers in Beijing on 28 May, 2018 and the Second Round of the Moscow Format Consultations on Afghanistan on 9 November, 2018. India offers to host the next SCO-Afghanistan Contact Group at the level of deputy foreign ministers meeting in 2019.

18. The Ministers welcomed the significant, positive changes in Korean Peninsula since 2018 and DPRK’s declared commitment for denuclearization. They welcomed the talks and consultations between the US and the DPRK, as well as improvement of inter-Korea relations. The Ministers reaffirmed that the Korean Peninsula issues should be resolved by peaceful and diplomatic means and expressed the hope that all parties concerned work together for continued progress in the political settlement process and realize denuclearization and lasting peace on the Peninsula at an early date.

19. The Ministers underscored that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action on the Iranian nuclear issue was an important achievement of multilateral diplomacy, which serves international and regional peace and security and the common interests of the international community. Recalling the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on the Iranian Nuclear Programme and the UN Security Council Resolution 2231, they called upon all parties to fully comply with their obligations and ensure full and effective implementation of the JCPOA to promote international and regional peace and security. They recognized Iran’s right to peaceful uses of nuclear energy as also the international community’s strong interest in the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear programme.

20. The Ministers reiterated that a two-state solution should be pursued to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting settlement of the Palestinian issue through negotiation based on the relevant UN resolutions, the principle of "land for peace”, the Arab peace initiative and pre-existing agreements between Israel and Palestine, leading to the establishment of a sovereign, independent and united State of Palestine coexisting peacefully with the State of Israel.

21. The Ministers stressed that a political and diplomatic solution, is the only reliable way to solve the Syrian issue. They reaffirmed support for the Geneva peace talks, the role of the UN as the main channel of mediation and the implementation of UNSC Resolution 2254. The Ministers welcomed the efforts of the Astana guarantors for improvement of the situation in Syria and the results of the fourth trilateral meeting in Sochi in February 2019. The Ministers hoped to see that the Constitutional Committee starts its work as early as possible, and that a political solution that accommodates the legitimate concerns of all parties could be found through an inclusive "Syrian-led and Syrian-owned” political process, with a view to seeking a political settlement of the Syrian conflict and safeguarding Syria’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.The Ministers called for enhanced coordination to fight against all terrorist organizations in Syria including those listed by the UNSC. The Ministers stressed the urgent need for socio-economic reconstruction in Syria and called upon the international community to provide necessary assistance in that regard in de-politicized and non-discriminatory manner, contributing, inter alia, to the return of Syrian refugees.

22. The Ministers expressed concern over the continuing conflict in the Republic of Yemen, which has resulted in civilian casualties and damages to civilian infrastructure. The Ministers called on the international community to take necessary measures to support the political settlement process and improve Yemen’s economic and social conditions. The Ministers also called on all parties to the conflict to abide by the Stockholm Agreement.

23. The Ministers stressed that the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Libya should be respected and upheld. They encouraged various factions in Libya to overcome their dissension and engage in broad-based, inclusive political dialogue pursuant to the Libyan Political Agreement to seek mutually acceptable solutions on all outstanding issues. The Ministers reaffirmed support for the UN-led political settlement process and the political transition plan proposed by the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Libya Ghassan Salamé, and called on the international community to make joint efforts for substantive progress in the political settlement process. The Ministers expressed support to Libya in its fight against the ISIL, Al-Qaeda and other terrorist organizations.

24. The Ministers declared that they are closely following the emerging situation in Venezuela. They called for the principles of United Nations Charter, the norms of international relations and international law to be adhered to by all. They are of the view that it is for the people of Venezuela to find political solution to resolve their differences through constructive dialogue and discussions, without resorting to violence. They stated that democracy, development, peace and security in Venezuela are of paramount importance for the progress and prosperity of the people of Venezuela.

25. The Ministers noted the intensified cross-border capital flows and risks as a result of the monetary policy adjustments by key developed economies. The Ministers supported strengthening the global financial safety net (GFSN), with a strong, quota-based and adequately resourced IMF at its centre. The Ministers stressed their hope to see the IMF complete the 15th General Review of Quotas by the Spring Meetings 2019 and no later than the Annual Meetings 2019, and agree on a new quota formula as the basis for realignment of quota shares to result in increased shares for dynamic economies in line with their relative positions in the world economy and hence likely in the increased shares of emerging markets and developing countries as a whole, while at the same time ensuring the voice of the poorest members.

26. The Ministers expressed their firm commitment to a rules-based, transparent, non-discriminatory, open and inclusive multilateral trading system centering around the WTO and firmly opposed to unilateralism and protectionism. They supported efforts to improve the WTO and believed such efforts should uphold its core values and basic principles and reflect the interests of all its members, especially developing members. The pressing task is to resolve the deadlock on appointments to the Appellate Body, an issue which concerns the WTO’s survival.

27. The Ministers agreed that the imposition of unilateral sanctions beyond those adopted by the UNSC as well as "long-arm jurisdiction” were inconsistent with the principles of international law, have reduced the effectiveness and legitimacy of the UNSC sanction regime, and had a negative impact on third States and international economic and trade relations.

28. The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals in order to achieve equitable, inclusive, open, all-round, innovative and sustainable development in a balanced and coordinated manner in the economic, social and environmental dimensions and attain the goal of eradicating poverty by 2030. The Ministers urged developed countries to honour their ODA commitments on time and in full and provide capital, technological and capacity-building assistance to developing countries in accordance with the Addis Ababa Action Agenda.

29. The Ministers welcomed the agreement reached at COP 24 of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Katowice on guidelines for operationalizing the Paris Agreement. They restated their commitment to combating climate change.

30. The Ministers welcomed the holding of a Russia-India-China Vice Foreign Ministers/Deputy National Security Advisors Consultation on Afghanistan in May 2018 in Moscow.

31. The Ministers expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the 16th Trilateral Academic Conference held in Russia in May 2018 and welcomed the 17th Trilateral Academic Conference to be held in China.

32. The Ministers welcomed the successful second edition of the visit of RIC young diplomats hosted by India in April 2018 and agreed to hold the third such interaction in Russia in 2019.

33. The Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation and the External Affairs Minister of the Republic of India thanked the People’s Republic of China for hosting and making excellent arrangements for the meeting.

34. The Ministers decided to hold the next trilateral meeting in Russia. The time and venue of the meeting will be agreed through diplomatic channels.

SC/13712 - Security Council Press Statement on Suicide Bombing in Jammu and Kashmir, by Council President Anatolio Ndong Mba (Equatorial Guinea), 21 February 2019

The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the heinous and cowardly suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in over 40 Indian paramilitary forces dead and dozens wounded on 14 February 2019, for which Jaish-e-Mohammed has claimed responsibility.

The members of the Security Council expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the Indian people and the Government of India, and wished a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured.
The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.

The members of the Security Council underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice, and urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with the Government of India and all other relevant authorities in this regard.

The members of the Security Council reiterated that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed. They reaffirmed the need for all States to combat by all means, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and other obligations under international law, including international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts.