Kathmandu— Pakistan summoned the top US diplomat in Islamabad on Wednesday to express strong disagreement with remarks made by Sergio Gor, the US special envoy to South and Central Asia, who stated that Jammu and Kashmir is “an important part of India.” Gor made the comments while visiting the Indian-administered portion of Kashmir as part of a two-day trip to the region. The move comes amid ongoing territorial disputes between India and Pakistan over the contested Kashmir region, which dates back to the partition of British India in 1947.

Diplomatic Protest

Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry lodged a formal protest with Charge d’Affaires Natalie Baker, the top US envoy in Islamabad, calling Gor’s comments “factually incorrect” and an “irresponsible statement.” The ministry emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir remains an internationally recognized disputed territory, awaiting resolution based on UN Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people.

Envoy’s Visit and Statement

Sergio Gor made the remarks in Srinagar after meeting with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, also describing the region as “an incredibly beautiful place.” His visit included both Jammu and Kashmir state and the federally administered Ladakh region. Gor is a close confidant and former business partner of US President Donald Trump.

Historical Context of Dispute

The dispute over Kashmir dates back to the partition of British India in 1947, when both India and Pakistan laid claim to the territory. Tensions escalated last year with a brief exchange of missiles and drones following a terror attack in Pahalgam, which India blamed on Pakistan-backed groups.

US Role and Trump’s Involvement

Despite the current disagreement, relations between Washington and Islamabad have seen recent positive developments, including a close rapport between President Trump and Pakistani Field Marshal Asim Munir. Trump previously claimed to have intervened to de-escalate tensions between India and Pakistan last year—a claim dismissed by New Delhi but credited by Islamabad, which nominated him for the Nobel Peace Prize. Trump has publicly referred to Munir as “my favorite field marshal.” Additionally, Pakistan is reportedly acting as a mediator in efforts to resolve the conflict in the Middle East.

Reciprocal Actions

In a related development, Indian authorities removed temporary structures and barricades outside the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi on Thursday. This action appears to be a response to a similar removal of structures outside the Indian mission in Islamabad carried out by Pakistani authorities earlier this week.

The situation remains tense as both countries maintain their positions on the disputed territory, with diplomatic channels open for continued dialogue.

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.