Rising tensions between India and Pakistan following a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir have prompted urgent calls for restraint from the European Union. On May 2, 2025, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, held a telephone conversation with the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, and Vice-President, Kaja Kallas, to discuss the regional fallout and Pakistan’s position.
The diplomatic exchange comes in the aftermath of the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), where 26 people were killed in one of the deadliest incidents in the region in decades. The attack, which took place at a popular tourist destination, has significantly worsened already strained relations between the nuclear-armed neighbours.
In his conversation with HR/VP Kallas, DPM/FM Dar categorically rejected what he described as India’s “baseless accusations and inflammatory propaganda” against Pakistan. He expressed serious concern over India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), calling it a clear violation of international law and treaty obligations. He also reiterated Pakistan’s proposal for an independent and transparent investigation into the Pahalgam attack, reaffirming Islamabad’s commitment to peace and regional stability.
Kaja Kallas, who has also spoken with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, emphasized the importance of restraint and dialogue. “Rising tensions between India and Pakistan are alarming,” Kallas said in a public statement. “I urge both sides to show restraint and pursue dialogue to ease the situation.” She underscored the European Union’s ongoing engagement with both countries and the need to prevent further escalation in South Asia.
The Pahalgam attack has led to a swift and severe diplomatic and military fallout. India accused Pakistan of supporting the attackers—an allegation Islamabad strongly denies. In response, India expelled Pakistani diplomats, revoked visas for Pakistani nationals, imposed travel and media restrictions, and suspended the IWT. Pakistan retaliated by expelling Indian diplomats and closing its airspace to Indian aircraft. Skirmishes have also been reported along the Line of Control (LoC), raising fears of a broader military conflict.
The United States has also stepped in, urging both countries to pursue a “responsible solution” and avoid escalation. These developments come amid ongoing geopolitical shifts in the region, and as the EU continues to build its strategic ties with both India and Pakistan.
While the European Union has refrained from taking a position on the accusations exchanged by the two countries, it has reaffirmed its commitment to peace and dialogue. The EU’s neutral stance and continued communication with both India and Pakistan reflect its role as a stabilising actor in international diplomacy.
As tensions persist, the need for restraint, dialogue, and de-escalation remains critical to avoid a devastating conflict in one of the world’s most volatile regions.
