Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 June 2025
7. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding any steps being taken at a national or EU Council level to address the breakdown in cooperation regarding the Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33053/25]
View answer8. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps he will take to promote dialogue between India and Pakistan regarding the Indus Waters Treaty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33054/25]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 7 and 8 together.
I reiterate my condemnation of the appalling terrorist attack that took place on Tuesday 22 April in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, and the murder of innocent civilians.
I welcome the complete and immediate ceasefire that was announced on 10th May and which has been extended indefinitely. It is positive that limited communication channels have reopened between the militaries of both countries. I very much hope that political dialogue between the two nations will start in order to ensure further de-escalation of tensions.
Continued restraint and de-escalation remain the vital priorities at this point as well as encouraging clear lines of communication between the two states to put an end to current tensions.
Throughout the recent events, Ireland worked closely with EU and international partners in urging restraint and supporting efforts to de-escalate the situation. The Government fully supported the statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union which called for restraint and de-escalation.
Ireland, through the EU, will continue to work with all parties to further de-escalate the situation and will continue to urge both states to engage in dialogue and live up to their obligations under international law.
The Government also fully supported UN Secretary General Guterres’ efforts to call for maximum military restraint from both countries, offering support for any initiative to promote de-escalation, diplomacy and a renewed commitment to peace.
Officials in my Department, at our Embassies in the region, at the EU and in Dublin, will continue to monitor the evolving situation, alongside our EU and likeminded international partners in New Delhi and Islamabad. My government is committed to enhanced political engagement with both countries over the coming years and will use every opportunity to support efforts towards conflict resolution.
