The Secretary-General spoke separately today by telephone with H.E. Mr. Muhammad Shebaz Sharif, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and H.E. Mr.  Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister for External Affairs of the Republic of India.

The Secretary-General reiterated his strong condemnation of the 22 April terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Secretary-General noted the importance of pursuing justice and accountability for these attacks through lawful means.

The Secretary-General also expressed his deep concern at rising tensions between India and Pakistan and underscored the need to avoid a confrontation that could result in tragic consequences. He offered his Good Offices to support de-escalation efforts.