Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Aug 20: Indian authorities have removed the external security perimeter outside the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, dismantling traffic bollards and barricades placed around the diplomatic compound, in a move that comes amid strained relations between the two neighbours.
The development came three days after Pakistani authorities removed security barricades outside the Indian High Commission in Islamabad, appearing to be a reciprocal step amid continuing diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan.
The latest move comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions between the two countries following their brief military conflict last year. Diplomatic ties have remained sensitive, with both sides closely watching developments that could affect their bilateral relations.
The situation has also been influenced by remarks made by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor during his first visit to Jammu and Kashmir. During his visit to Srinagar on Wednesday, Gor described Jammu and Kashmir as an “important part of India” and praised the region's natural beauty.
Gor, who is also the Trump administration's Special Envoy to South and Central Asia, visited Srinagar and took a shikara ride on Dal Lake. He also indicated that the United States could reconsider its travel advisories for Jammu and Kashmir, citing security improvements and steps taken by the central government and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
His remarks triggered a strong reaction from Islamabad. Pakistan's Foreign Office summoned US Chargé d'Affaires Natalie Baker in Islamabad and lodged a strong demarche over the ambassador's comments.
Pakistan said it strongly condemned and rejected the description of Jammu and Kashmir as part of India, maintaining that the region remains an internationally disputed territory whose final status is to be determined in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
Islamabad also argued that Gor's remarks were inconsistent with what it described as the long-standing US position on the Kashmir dispute and Washington's stated commitment to international law and the UN Charter.
Pakistan further referred to US President Donald Trump's offer to mediate between India and Pakistan following the four-day conflict between the two countries in May last year, urging Washington to ensure that its public statements remain consistent with its position on the Kashmir issue.
The developments involving the diplomatic compounds and the US envoy's remarks have added to the sensitivity surrounding India-Pakistan relations, with both countries continuing to respond sharply to moves they perceive as affecting their diplomatic and strategic interests.