India on Thursday shot down Pakistan’s suggestions that Russia can play the role of mediator between New Delhi and Islamabad reiterating all outstanding disputes between the two countries can be resolved only bilaterally.
“No offer of mediation between India and Pakistan was made by Russia to India. It is my understan-ding that Russia is very well aware of India’s consistent position to address all outstanding issues with Pakistan bilaterally in an environm-ent free of terrorism and violence,” official spokesperson of Ministry of External Affairs, Gopal Baglay said.
The Indian response came shortly after Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson made a statement in Islamabad suggesting Pak welcomes Russia’s mediation in the dispute between India and Pakistan. Russian officials also denied reports that President Vladimir Putin, on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation had offered mediation between India and Pak to resolve issues between the two countries.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had earlier this month made it clear that India will not accept any third party in between its disputes with Pakistan and it is open to resolving all issues bilaterally as per Shimla Agreement and lahore Declaration.