Syed Akbaruddin, India’s Ambassador to UN
India’s Ambassador to UN Syed Akbaruddin Friday said India is committed to gradually removing all restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir, post the abrogation of Article 370 by the central government. The statement by Syed Akbaruddin came after the closed-door meeting on Kashmir issue concluded at the UN Security Council.
The meeting was called after Pakistan -- backed by its all-weather ally-- China requested "closed consultations" on the issue.
"We're committed to gradually removing all restrictions. Since the change is internal to India, have not made any difference to our external orientation. India remains committed to ensure that the situation there (Jammu and Kashmir) remains calm and peaceful," Syed Akbaruddin said.
Further speaking on India's stand on Kashmir issue, Syed Akbaruddin said, "These have no external ramifications."
"The recent decisions taken by the Govt of India and our legislative bodies are intended to ensure that good governance is promoted and that social-economic development is enhanced for our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh," India’s Ambassador to UN Syed Akbaruddin added.
Talking of the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, Syed Akbaruddin said, "Our national position was and remains that matter related to Article 370 of the Indian Constitution is entirely an internal matter of India."
"We note that there were some who tried to project an alarmist approach to the situation which is far from the ground realities," Syed Akbaruddin said, adding, "Particular concern is that one state is using the terminology of 'jihad' and is promoting violence in India, including by their leaders."
The outcome of the UNSC meeting will not be a formal pronouncement as the consultations are informal in nature.
India and Pakistan did not attend the meeting, which was open only to the 5 permanent members and 10 non-permanent members.
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