NEW DELHI, Aug 8 (NNN-BERNAMA) — India expressing regret over Pakistan’s move to downgrade its diplomatic relations with the former over the Kashmir dispute has called on the country to review its decision.
Islamabad on Wednesday announced a series of steps following New Delhi’s repeal of Article 370, a special provision in the Indian constitution that allowed a degree of autonomy to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Pakistan asked India to withdraw its high commissioner in Islamabad and said it will not send its own high commissioner-designate to India.
“The Government of India regrets the steps announced by Pakistan yesterday and would urge that country to review them so that normal channels for diplomatic communications are preserved,” India’s Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement on Thursday.
“The intention behind these measures is obviously to present an alarming picture to the world of our bilateral ties. The reasons cited by Pakistan are not supported by facts on the ground,” the ministry said.
Pakistan’s other steps in protest against the Indian move in Jammu and Kashmir include suspension of trade with India, a review of bilateral arrangements and raising the matter internationally.
On Monday, the Indian government announced its decision to revoke Article 370 of the Constitution which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.
