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Foreign Conflicts

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 March 2019

Tuesday, 5 March 2019

Ceisteanna (121)

Niall Collins

Ceist:

121. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the status of the ongoing hostilities between Pakistan and India; the response and position of the EU to recent events; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10666/19]

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Freagraí scríofa

I am deeply concerned about the very strained relations between Pakistan and India at present. The increase in military activity between them since the suicide bombing in the Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir on 14 February has been alarming. The dangers posed to the people in the region by the ongoing hostilities between the two countries are very grave. Officials in my Department, including in the Embassy of Ireland in India and the Embassy of Ireland in Turkey (which is also accredited to Pakistan) will continue to monitor the situation.

I hope that the difficulties between Pakistan and India will be resolved peacefully and as soon as possible. Other EU Member States have called for the prompt de-escalation of the crisis, and on behalf of the EU, HR/VP Mogherini has called for restraint by both parties.

In the aftermath of the terrorist attack on Indian security personnel in Jammu and Kashmir, I condemned its occurrence and stressed that Ireland will always work to promote peace and reconciliation. We are deeply aware that the impact of violence and conflict on people and communities can be devastating.

I hope that Pakistan and India will work together to prevent further acts of terrorism in the region and pursue diplomatic solutions to the issues they face.

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