WASHINGTON, AUG 08 (DNA) – Washington stated on Thursday that it supports direct engagement between Pakistan and India to resolve the Kashmir issue, and urged for restraint as Pakistan dismissed New Delhi’s ambassador.

A statement from the US State Department notes, “We continue to support direct dialogue between India and Pakistan on Kashmir and other issues of concern.”

On Monday, India abolished Article 370 from its constitution, scraping away the special constitutional status of the occupied valley of Kashmir. In turn, Pakistan downgraded its diplomatic ties, and sent back India’s high commissioner.

A spokesperson of the US State Department noted that Washington is closely monitoring the constitutional changes India has ushered in the territory of Jammu & Kashmir.

The spokesperson said, “The US is closely following India’s legislation regarding the new territorial status and governance of Jammu and Kashmir.

We note the broader implications of these developments, including the potential for increased instability in the region.”

The downgrading of diplomatic ties and heightened military deployment on both sides of the border is cause for concern, and the officials in Washington have voiced their concerns over the threats of heightened instability and the possibility of a confrontation between the two nuclear-armed rivals.

The spokesperson of the US State Department expressed concern over the unlawful detentions and restrictions imposed on the people of occupied Jammu & Kashmir.

The spokesperson noted, “We continue to be concerned by reports of detentions and the continued restrictions on the residents of Jammu and Kashmir.

We urge respect for individual rights, compliance with legal procedures, and inclusive dialogue with those affected.”

The spokesperson noted that the US calls upon both India and Pakistan to maintain peace and stability along the Line of Control, and eliminate cross-border terrorism by undertaking “firm and resolute steps”.

The occupied Himalayan valley of Jammu & Kashmir remains under an unprecedented security lockdown in the aftermath of India’s unilateral decision to abolish the constitutional status of the valley.

New Delhi has deployed thousands of additional troops, restricting civilian movements and bring normal life to a standstill.

India maintains that Jammu & Kashmir is an integral part of the country, and the withdrawal of its special status and the division of the region into two federally governed territories is an “internal” matter of the country.=DNA

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