US says India, Pak must talk

Amid reports of provocative remarks against India by Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin, the US has said such rhetorics are “unhelpful” for regional safety and security and emphasised the need for talks between India and Pakistan.

“What I would say is I have seen reports and anything that does not lead to a calm and peaceful and moderate resolution of differences is not helpful,” State Department Spokesperson, Elizabeth Trudeau said. “We believe that for regional safety and security, it is the responsibility of the two countries not only to speak directly to each other but also to have that support within the broader international community,” Trudeau said. Answering questions about reports that Salahuddin threatened to wage war against India over Kashmir, Trudeau added, “Of course violence is a concern to us, but what I would like to say is issues like this are best resolved through dialogue between those countries.”