Gay Mitchell
Ceist:28 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will take steps to impress upon the Governments of Pakistan and India the need to arrive at a peaceful settlement on the question of Jammu and Kashmir.
Written Answers. - Republic of India Disputed Territory.
Ruairí Quinn
Ceist:64 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the concern expressed by the authorities in Pakistan following recent developments in Jammu and Kashmir in the Republic of India; to the risk of a full conflict breaking out between Pakistan and India over this disputed territory and the treatment by the Indian authorities of the population; whether the Irish Government, on behalf of the European Commission, will convey to both Governments the concern of the EC at the prospect of military hostilities commencing; if it will urge both Governments to resolve their difficulties by diplomatic and peaceful means; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 28 and 64 together.
I am deeply concerned at the current state of tension between India and Pakistan over the question of Jammu and Kashmir. I have personally conveyed my wish to see a peaceful settlement of the dispute to the Indian Minister for Foreign Affairs when I met him recently. I have also had this wish conveyed to the Pakistani Ambassador. Our concerns on this issue are fully shared by our partners in the Twelve, who consider it essential that moderation and restraint be exercised to ensure that the dispute can be settled peacefully. India and Pakistan have been made aware of the views of the Twelve.