External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar dismissed claims of U.S. mediation in the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan, stating that the May 10 agreement was the outcome of direct talks between the two countries. In an interview with Dutch broadcaster NOS, he emphasized that Indian military actions had forced the Pakistani military to agree to a halt in hostilities. He made it clear there was no involvement from the U.S. or any external nation in these negotiations.

Jaishankar acknowledged that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance reached out, along with leaders from West Asia and other regions, expressing concern and urging de-escalation. However, he underlined that the ceasefire was a result of direct communication between the Indian and Pakistani military leadership. “We told everyone the same thing — if Pakistan wants to stop the fighting, they must tell us directly. Their general had to call our general, and that’s exactly what happened,” he explained.

He reiterated that India is open to discussions with Pakistan only on two issues: ending terrorism and the return of territories in Kashmir under Pakistan’s illegal occupation. He firmly stated that India’s borders in Kashmir are non-negotiable because Kashmir is an integral part of the country.

Addressing whether India’s economic growth was being hindered by ongoing border conflicts with China and Pakistan, Jaishankar said India had no choice but to prioritize national security due to the seriousness of its challenges. “You don’t choose between economic progress and security — they go hand in hand. Now Europe is beginning to understand that,” he added.