We would like to say the following in connection with Pakistani media reports that cite a Pakistani Foreign Ministry official as saying that Russia is prepared to mediate a settlement of the Kashmir problem. Russia’s position of principle on this matter has not changed: we believe that the differences between Islamabad and New Delhi must be settled through bilateral talks based on the 1972 Simla Agreement and on the 1999 Lahore Declaration.

Like the rest of the international community, Russia would like to see neighbourly relations between India and Pakistan. This would have a direct impact on the strengthening of regional security and stability and also on the promotion of mutually beneficial trade and economic ties.