ISLAMABAD: Diplomatic sources have revealed that Pakistan and India are expected to engage in high-level talks in Saudi Arabia, with mediation by the United States and Saudi Arabia. The discussions are likely to focus on the long-standing Kashmir dispute and the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) — two of the most contentious issues between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
This initiative comes amid renewed efforts led by US President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who recently facilitated a preliminary agreement to resume dialogue following heightened tensions between the two countries.
Sources confirmed that Washington and Riyadh will play lead roles in facilitating the talks. While India insists on limiting discussions to terrorism and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Pakistan is pressing for a broader dialogue encompassing Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and the stalled IWT.
“We are hopeful for progress on both Kashmir and the IWT, which has been in limbo since the Pahalgam attack,” a senior Pakistani official told Business Recorder, citing increased diplomatic momentum.
The United States has also reportedly warned both countries that continued stalemate could jeopardize trade ties, underscoring the urgency for constructive engagement. Despite repeated queries, both the US Embassy in Islamabad and Pakistan’s Foreign Office declined to comment on the developments.
Story by Zulfiqar Ahmad | Nuzhat Nazar
