We call for immediate de-escalation and direct dialogue between India & Pakistan: G7 statement

The Group of Seven (G7) nations on Friday called for restraint from both India and Pakistan and urged them to begin direct dialogue, amid growing tensions between the two nuclear-armed countries. The call came after India launched strikes inside Pakistan following a deadly attack on tourists in Indian Kashmir.

G7 condemns Kashmir attack

In a joint statement issued by Canada, the foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union said they “strongly condemn” the April 22 attack on tourists in Indian Kashmir.

They added, “We urge maximum restraint from both India and Pakistan.”

Call for de-escalation

The G7 further said, “We call for immediate de-escalation and encourage both countries to engage in direct dialogue towards a peaceful outcome.”

Escalation after cross-border strikes

India and Pakistan have been involved in daily clashes since Wednesday. India launched strikes inside Pakistan, which it said targeted militant bases in retaliation for the April 22 attack. India has blamed Pakistan for the attack, a charge Pakistan denies. In response, Pakistan has vowed to retaliate.