London, (Shahzad Ali) __ Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr. Mohammad Faisal, emphatically declared that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute is the pivotal issue driving tensions between Pakistan and India. He made these important statements during a seminar titled “India-Pakistan Strategic Rivals: A Regional Security Analysis,” hosted by the Centre for Security and Intelligence Studies (BUCSIS) at the University of Buckingham.

The seminar attracted a diverse and engaged audience of faculty members, researchers, students, journalists, and academics. In his keynote address, Dr. Faisal decisively articulated Pakistan’s perspective on achieving regional peace and security in South Asia.

He specifically addressed the tragic incident on April 22, 2025, in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists. Dr. Faisal condemned this act strongly and offered Pakistan’s full support for an independent international investigation. He criticized India for its unfounded accusations and unilateral actions, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) and unprovoked military aggression.

Dr. Faisal asserted that Pakistan exercised its right to self-defense with a proportionate response, emphasizing the serious global concerns regarding the possible escalation of conflict, which could have far-reaching consequences for the region and the world at large.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to regional peace and welcomed mediation efforts by the United States and other allied countries. Dr. Faisal reiterated that the resolution of the Kashmir issue must align with United Nations Security Council resolutions and reflect the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

Condemning India’s efforts to weaponize water through violations of the Indus Waters Treaty, he asserted that such actions pose a significant threat to Pakistan’s agriculture-based economy and regional stability.

Highlighting Pakistan’s position as a frontline state in the global war against terrorism, the High Commissioner referenced the nation’s substantial sacrifices and counterterrorism measures. He strongly accused India of sponsoring terrorism and carrying out disinformation campaigns aimed at damaging Pakistan’s international standing.

Dr. Faisal advocated for constructive dialogue and underscored Pakistan’s commitment to responsible engagement. He insisted that the security situation in South Asia has global implications, urging the international community to take an active role in de-escalating tensions between these two nuclear-armed states.

In concluding his address, Dr. Faisal laid out Pakistan’s vision for a peaceful and prosperous South Asia, underpinned by dialogue, connectivity, and regional cooperation. He cited key initiatives such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Kartarpur Corridor as significant steps towards fostering regional peace.

He expressed sincere gratitude to the University of Buckingham and the South and Southeast Asia Security Research Centre (SSEASRC) for facilitating this critical discussion on the evolving security dynamics in South Asia, particularly concerning Pakistan-India relations.

In his closing remarks, University Vice-Chancellor Professor James Tooley emphasized that disputes between Pakistan and India have profound implications for global stability, making such discussions both timely and imperative. Professor Julian Richards, Director of the Centre for Security and Intelligence Studies, echoed the necessity of maintaining dialogue on these vital issues within the academic setting.

The session was expertly moderated by BUCSIS Research Fellow Dr. Mohammad Tahir.