Malaysia urges Pakistan, India to exercise 'utmost restraint', engage in dialogue

Malaysia concerned over Kashmir situation, encourages all stakeholders to abide by UNSC resolutions: Dr Mahathir

ISLAMABAD: In the wake of New Delhi's illegal move in Indian-occupied Kashmir (IoK), Malaysia has urged Pakistan and India to exercise "utmost restraint" and prevent further escalation of tension in the region.

"Malaysia is concerned over the recent developments in Jammu and Kashmir, in particular the repeated escalation of tension in the region," read a statement issued by Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir bin Mohamad’s office on Thursday.

Statement on the Situation in Jammu and Kashmir pic.twitter.com/gIou8HGngg

— Dr Mahathir Mohamad (@chedetofficial) August 8, 2019

"As a close partner to both India and Pakistan, Malaysia places high hopes that the two neighbours will exercise utmost restraint to prevent further escalation that could be detrimental to the peace, stability and prosperity in the region."

Pakistan is united over Kashmir issue: AJK PM

The Malaysian premier stressed the need for both sides to honour existing United Nations resolutions and engage in dialogue.

"Prime Minister Imran Khan, among others, referred to the need to respect the relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions related to Jammu and Kashmir," read the communique.

"Malaysia would like to encourage all stakeholders to abide by the relevant UNSC resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir towards the maintenance of international peace and security."

"Malaysia always believes that dialogues and consultations are the best route to a peaceful and amicable solution over this longstanding issue."

The statement came after Monday's phone conversation between the Pakistani and Malaysian premiers, in which PM Imran briefed Dr Mahathir on the latest situation in IoK.

The call to the Malaysian premier was part of Pakistan and PM Imran's efforts to gain diplomatic support against New Delhi.

Over the past few days, PM Imran has also spoken to Turkey’s President Recep Tayyib Erdogan and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman regarding India’s illegal action in occupied Kashmir.