Pak Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Signals Openness To Talks With India On Kashmir, Terrorism, Water Treaty

Khawaja Asif, Pakistan's Defence Minister, has indicated a possible easing of tensions with India, suggesting that core issues such as Kashmir, terrorism, and the Indus Waters Treaty could be brought to the table in any future dialogue.

His remarks came in response to questions about addressing unresolved matters with India, following a newly agreed ceasefire aimed at halting all military activity across land, air, and sea with immediate effect.

Photo Credit: AP/PTI

"If the ceasefire helps lay the groundwork for peace, it would certainly be a positive step," Asif stated, although he cautioned that it was too early to draw definitive conclusions.

"These are the three principal matters that could be open to discussion," a local news outlet quoted him as saying.

While Pakistan has termed the development a formal "ceasefire agreement," India has taken a more measured stance, referring to it as an "understanding" between the two sides.

This mutual understanding came after four days of intense cross-border exchanges involving drones and missiles, pushing both nations dangerously close to open conflict.

Commenting further on Kashmir, Asif said that the primary points of contention between the two countries - including the Indus Waters Treaty and terrorism - might be revisited through dialogue.

"With time, the possibility of peace might arise," he remarked.

He went on to express hope that India, particularly its leadership, would eventually prioritise the broader regional future above internal political interests, adding that peaceful coexistence founded on equality is essential for South Asia's development.