Pakistan Summons US Chargé d’Affaires Over Controversial Remarks by Ambassador Sergio Gor on Kashmir

Pakistan on Wednesday summoned the United States Chargé d’Affaires in Islamabad and lodged a strong demarche over the “factually incorrect” remarks made by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor regarding the status of Jammu and Kashmir during his visit to Indian-illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a strong protest was conveyed over Ambassador Gor’s visit to the disputed territory and his characterisation of Jammu and Kashmir as “an important part of India.”

Pakistan strongly condemned and categorically rejected the statement. It underscored that Jammu and Kashmir remains an internationally recognised disputed territory whose final disposition must be determined in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

The Foreign Office highlighted that the ambassador’s remarks contradicted the long-standing and well-documented position of the United States on the Kashmir dispute and ran contrary to Washington’s commitment to the supremacy of international law and the UN Charter.

While appreciating earlier offers of mediation on the issue, Pakistan urged the US side to ensure that its public statements remain consistent with the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir.

Ambassador Sergio Gor, who also serves as US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia, made the remarks in Srinagar after meeting Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday, describing the region as “an important part of India” and “an incredibly beautiful place” during his first visit there.