Pakistan Believes Indonesia Can Help Ease Tensions with India

Jakarta, Indonesianpost.com – A Pakistani envoy suggested on Thursday that Indonesia could help prevent further escalation of the India-Pakistan conflict, as the nuclear-armed neighbors approach the brink of war. Indian missile strikes on multiple locations in Pakistan, including Kashmir, on Wednesday resulted in 31 deaths and 57 injuries. The strikes followed a deadly militant attack on Indian tourists in Kashmir, which killed 26, with India accusing Pakistan of involvement, a claim Pakistan denies.

Roshan Lal, Pakistan’s chargé d’affaires in Indonesia, briefed Jakarta-based reporters, stating that Indonesia, with its positive relations with India, could use its influence to urge India to restrain from further escalation. Lal called on Indonesia to urge India to prioritize restraint and dialogue, alongside urging Pakistan to exercise similar caution.

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In response, Indonesia issued a foreign ministerial statement calling for restraint from both parties and emphasized the importance of dialogue in resolving the crisis. Indonesia, maintaining diplomatic ties with both countries, has long-standing relations with both India and Pakistan, having established diplomatic ties with Pakistan in 1950 and with India the previous year.

Indonesia’s trade relations with India totaled $26 billion in 2024, while its trade with Pakistan amounted to $4.1 billion. Additionally, Indonesia’s membership in the BRICS bloc, alongside India, further connects Jakarta to the regional dynamics. (BL/JG)