NEW YORK: Pakistan tells UN India exports terrorism as Islamabad strongly responded to India’s remarks at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, with Pakistani diplomat Saima Saleem accusing New Delhi of promoting what Pakistan described as terrorism, violence and misinformation.
Speaking during Pakistan’s right of reply, Saleem raised several issues concerning relations between the two neighbouring countries, including terrorism, Jammu and Kashmir, minority rights and the Indus Waters Treaty.
Pakistan tells UN India exports terrorism and violence
Saleem said Pakistan had suffered heavily from terrorism and accused India of supporting militant organisations operating against Pakistan. She cited Pakistan’s claims regarding alleged Indian assistance to groups including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Majeed Brigade.
She also referred to cases involving Indian nationals Kulbhushan Jadhav and Nikhil Gupta while outlining Pakistan’s allegations about Indian activities linked to terrorism and overseas operations.
India has previously rejected such allegations and has made its own accusations against Pakistan concerning terrorism and militant groups.
Pakistan raises Kashmir issue at United Nations
The Pakistani representative also reiterated Islamabad’s position on Jammu and Kashmir, describing the territory as an internationally disputed issue.
Saleem criticised Indian policies in the region and raised concerns over what Pakistan considers violations of the rights of Kashmiris, including their right to self-determination.
She also raised concerns about the treatment of religious minorities in India, including Muslims, Christians, Dalits and Sikhs, and criticised the influence of Hindutva ideology in Indian politics.
Indus Waters Treaty among key issues
Pakistan also highlighted the Indus Waters Treaty during the UN address.
Saleem criticised India’s decision to place the treaty in abeyance and stressed the importance of water resources to Pakistan’s population and economy.
The water-sharing agreement has become another major point of contention between the two countries amid broader tensions in bilateral relations.
Pakistan calls for peaceful resolution
Concluding her remarks, Saleem said Pakistan remained committed to peace, dialogue, mutual respect and the peaceful settlement of disputes.
The exchange at the United Nations reflected the continuing diplomatic differences between Pakistan and India, with both countries maintaining sharply different positions on terrorism, Kashmir, water resources and regional security.
