New Delhi:  The continued tension, shelling, and attacks between India and Pakistan are a serious cause of concern. We appreciate the declaration by Indian officials that there is no intention to escalate the conflict. We hope that there will soon be concrete progress toward lasting peace.

Both countries are striving to overcome poverty and deprivation and working for the prosperity and progress of their people, and both are nuclear powers. In such a situation, war and unrest serve no one’s interest and will most severely harm the poor populations of both countries. We hope that the political and military leadership of both countries will now take swift and concrete steps toward sustainable peace.

There are continued reports of the deaths of ordinary Indian citizens living in border areas. The threats faced by innocent civilians demand our immediate attention. We express our heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed and demand that the government provide these families with all necessary assistance and protection on a priority basis. According to media reports, several civilians have also been killed on the other side of the border. The killing of innocent civilians – especially women and children – regardless of their race, religion, language, nationality, or class, is deeply tragic. It is the collective responsibility of all parties to ensure, under all circumstances, the protection of innocent human lives.

Terrorism is a grave issue in the region. Many precious and innocent lives have been lost to it in our country, and people in Pakistan, too, have been its constant victims. Now is the time to rise above narrow interests and focus on finding a lasting solution to this core issue.