Pakistan has formally expressed “strong reservations” over the mention of Jammu and Kashmir as part of India in the India-Afghanistan joint statement issued on October 10, 2025, during Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visit to New Delhi. The statement, which condemned terrorism and reaffirmed bilateral cooperation, included a reference to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, drawing sharp criticism from Islamabad.
The Pakistan Foreign Office summoned the Afghan ambassador and conveyed its objections, calling the reference a “clear violation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions” and “insensitive to the sacrifices and sentiments of the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.” Pakistan also rejected Muttaqi’s remarks that “terrorism is Pakistan’s internal problem,” further escalating diplomatic tensions.
🧠 Key Elements of the India-Afghanistan Joint Statement
| Theme | Statement Highlights |
|---|---|
| Counterterrorism | Condemnation of April 22 Pahalgam attack |
| Bilateral Cooperation | Strengthening trade, connectivity, and security |
| Regional Stability | Support for peaceful South Asia |
| J&K Reference | Mentioned as part of India |
| Afghan Position | Expressed solidarity with India |
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi jointly addressed the media, emphasizing shared concerns over terrorism and regional extremism.
📊 Timeline of Diplomatic Exchange
| Date | Event Description |
|---|---|
| Oct 10, 2025 | India-Afghanistan joint statement released |
| Oct 11, 2025 | Pakistan summons Afghan envoy in Islamabad |
| Oct 11, 2025 | Pakistan issues formal protest via Foreign Office |
| Oct 12, 2025 | Afghan embassy acknowledges receipt of objections |
Pakistan’s Additional Foreign Secretary (West Asia & Afghanistan) conveyed the protest to the Afghan ambassador, reiterating Islamabad’s stance on Kashmir’s disputed status.
🧾 Pakistan’s Official Objections
| Objection Area | Pakistan’s Position |
|---|---|
| J&K Reference | Violates UN resolutions, undermines neutrality |
| Afghan Remarks on Terrorism | “Unfounded and provocative” |
| Diplomatic Sensitivity | “Highly insensitive to Kashmiri sentiments” |
| Bilateral Fallout | “May affect Pakistan-Afghanistan ties” |
Pakistan also accused India of using diplomatic platforms to “legitimize its occupation” and warned against “regional destabilization through narrative manipulation.”
🗣️ Reactions from Regional Stakeholders
- India MEA Spokesperson: “The joint statement reflects mutual understanding. Pakistan’s objections are misplaced.”
- Afghan Embassy (Delhi): “We stand by our commitment to peace and counterterrorism.”
- China: No official comment yet, but observers expect cautious neutrality.
- OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation): Expected to issue a statement supporting Pakistan’s position.
| Country/Entity | Reaction Summary |
|---|---|
| India | Defends statement as factual and sovereign |
| Afghanistan | Maintains diplomatic balance |
| Pakistan | Strong protest and diplomatic escalation |
| OIC | Likely to echo Pakistan’s concerns |
The incident has reignited debates over Kashmir’s international status and the role of third-party references in bilateral diplomacy.
🧭 Strategic Implications for South Asia
- India-Afghanistan Ties: Strengthened through counterterrorism and trade
- Pakistan-Afghanistan Relations: Strained over Kashmir and terrorism remarks
- Regional Diplomacy: Increased polarization on Kashmir narrative
- UN Engagement: Possible revival of discussions on resolution compliance
Experts suggest that Pakistan may raise the issue at upcoming UNGA sessions and seek support from Islamic nations and China to counter India’s diplomatic positioning.
📊 Comparative Analysis: Kashmir References in Past Joint Statements
| Year | Countries Involved | Kashmir Mention | Pakistan’s Reaction |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | India-US | Implicit | Mild protest |
| 2021 | India-EU | Explicit | Strong objection |
| 2023 | India-Australia | Omitted | No reaction |
| 2025 | India-Afghanistan | Explicit | Strong reservation |
The current episode marks one of the most direct diplomatic confrontations over Kashmir in recent years.
Disclaimer
This news content is based on verified diplomatic statements, government briefings, and media reports as of October 12, 2025. It is intended for editorial use and public awareness. The information does not constitute legal advice, geopolitical endorsement, or conflict resolution guidance and adheres to ethical journalism standards.
