Pakistan Summons US Diplomat Over Kashmir Remark
Pakistan has summoned US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker in Islamabad and lodged a formal diplomatic protest over remarks by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor describing Jammu and Kashmir as an “important part of India”. Islamabad said the comments contradicted what it considers Washington’s longstanding position on the Kashmir dispute.
Pakistan Protests Sergio Gor Kashmir Remarks
Gor made the remarks during his first official visit to Jammu and Kashmir on August 19, where he met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Srinagar.
Speaking during the visit, the US ambassador described Jammu and Kashmir as an important part of India and praised the region’s natural beauty.
Pakistan’s foreign ministry subsequently summoned the senior US diplomat in Islamabad and conveyed what it described as a strong demarche over the statement.
Islamabad Rejects US Envoy’s J&K Statement
Pakistan argued that Gor’s remarks were inconsistent with Washington’s previous position on Jammu and Kashmir and called on the United States to maintain consistency in its public statements.
Islamabad continues to regard Jammu and Kashmir as a disputed territory, while India maintains that the Union Territory is an integral part of the country and rejects third-party intervention in the matter.
The diplomatic exchange highlights the continuing sensitivity surrounding international comments on Kashmir.
US May Review Jammu Kashmir Travel Advisory
During his Srinagar visit, Gor also indicated that the United States would reassess its travel advisory for Jammu and Kashmir following improvements in the security situation.
A possible revision could encourage more American tourists to visit the region and would represent a significant change in Washington’s assessment of travel conditions there.
Gor’s visit and remarks have consequently drawn considerable diplomatic attention in both India and Pakistan.
