US Encourages Dialogue Between Pakistan and India Following SCO Summit

The US has expressed its support for dialogue between Pakistan and India following the recent SCO summit, where top leaders of member countries gathered and signed eight outcome documents. US Department of State spokesperson Matthew Miller stated that the US values its relations with both countries, indicating a desire for improved ties between the two nations. The relations between Pakistan and India have remained largely strained since the downgrading of diplomatic ties in 2019, primarily due to the abrogation of Article 370, which removed the special status of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Pakistan has linked normalization of ties with India to the restoration of the special status of IIOJK. A ceasefire agreement was renewed in February 2021 along the Line of Control (LoC), providing a glimmer of hope for improved relations. However, the road to normalization remains uncertain, and it will be up to both countries to decide the scope of their dialogue.