§ Stephen HesfordTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the sequence of activities required to decrease tensions in the South Asian region. [77284]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienMy right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary warmly welcomed the announcements by India to withdraw forces from the international border and Pakistan to withdraw forces from the international border and Line of Control. These are positive steps towards the reduction of tensions in the region. We hope that this will be followed by further de-escalatory moves on both sides that will lead to a resumption of dialogue between India and Pakistan. Only peaceful dialogue can lead to a lasting solution of the Kashmir issue.