ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday called French President Emmanuel Macron and King Abdullah of Jordan and briefed them on the current situation in India-held Kashmir.

During his telephonic conversation with the two leaders, the prime minister highlighted the illegal and unilateral steps taken by India to change the special status of occupied Jammu and Kashmir and its demographic structure.

He said these steps were against the United Nations Security Council resolutions on Kashmir as well as the international law.

Mr Khan underlined that the actions taken by India posed a grave risk to peace and security in the region. He highlighted the severe hardship faced by the people of occupied Kashmir in the face of unprecedented lockdown of its entire population.

He apprised the two leaders of the worsening situation of basic human rights, safety and security of the people in occupied Kashmir, which has been under curfew since August 5.

President Macron said that France was closely observing the situation in occupied Jammu and Kashmir. He underlined the importance of resolving all outstanding issues through peaceful means.

PM Khan also briefed the French president on Pakistan’s efforts to support the Afghan peace and reconciliation process.

Mr Macron appreciated Pakistan’s positive role in bringing peace to Afghanistan.

The two leaders agreed to continue to work together for peace and stability in the region.

The prime minister told King Abdullah that India’s illegal and repressive policies in occupied Kashmir had not only led to a grave humanitarian crisis but also endangered peace and security in the region.

He said that through its unilateral and fascist actions, India was attempting to change the demography of the disputed territory, which was a blatant violation of the international norms and the UN Security Council resolutions.

Mr Khan said that the international community must take notice of the Indian excesses and raise its voice for the oppressed people of occupied Kashmir.

King Abdullah said that Jordan was closely following the developments in occupied Kashmir. He called for de-escalating the situation and finding a peaceful resolution of the dispute through dialogue.

He said Jordan would consult other countries on the situation in occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Published in Dawn, August 29th, 2019