Waiting for return of 'stolen' part from Pakistan: Jaishankar on Kashmir problem

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during a conversation with Director and CEO of Bronwen Maddox at Chatham House (PTI photo)

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday spoke about Kashmir issue at the Chatham House in London and said that the part of Kashmir illegally controlled by Pakistan is the only thing which was left from attaining complete resolution of the problems in J&K.

He made these remarks during a session titled "India’s Rise and Role in the World" at the Chatham House.

Responding to a query on steps taken by India to solve the Kashmir issue, Jaishankar said that the abrogation of Article 370 was the first step in that direction.

"In Kashmir, we have done a good job solving most of it. I think removing Article 370 was one step. Then, restoring growth, economic activity and social justice in Kashmir was step number two. Holding elections, which were done with a very high turnout, was step number three. I think the part we are waiting for is the return of the stolen part of Kashmir, which is on the illegal Pakistani occupation. When that's done, I assure you, Kashmir solved."

Jaishankar also spoke on India’s ties with China. He said that New Delhi wanted a stable relationship with China in which India’s interests were “respected and sensitivities were recognised”, adding that peace along borders and stability were inevitable for the growth of the two nations.

“The key issue is how to create a stable equilibrium and transition into the next phase of equilibriums. We want a stable relationship where our interests are respected, our sensitivities are recognised, and where it works for both of us. That is the main challenge in our relationship,” Jaishankar said on the India-China relationship.