Islamabad, May 17 – In a carefully calibrated diplomatic gesture, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy on Friday applauded both India and Pakistan for agreeing to a ceasefire after weeks of heightened tensions, calling the development a “positive step” towards long-term regional peace. His remarks came during an official visit to Islamabad, where he met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other senior Pakistani leaders.
In his statement, Lammy acknowledged the deep emotional impact the recent cross-border hostilities had on the large British-Indian and British-Pakistani communities, describing the scenes of violence as “deeply distressing.”
“The images of conflict between India and Pakistan were distressing for all of us in Britain,” Lammy said during a press briefing. “But especially for the millions of Brits with Indian and Pakistani heritage, and the many British nationals currently living in both of these countries.”
The ceasefire agreement, reached on May 10 after intense backchannel diplomacy involving global stakeholders including the UK, followed India’s strong response to the deadly April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.
A Balancing Act Between Allies
Lammy’s remarks underscored the UK’s delicate balancing act as it maintains close diplomatic and economic ties with both South Asian neighbors. He reaffirmed Britain’s historical connections and strategic partnerships with both nations, emphasizing that the UK would continue playing a constructive role in regional peace-building.
“The British Pakistani and British Indian diasporas would particularly welcome news of the ceasefire and increased stability,” Lammy noted. “We share deep historic links with both countries, and peace in the region is a matter of importance for us.”
Condemnation of Terrorism, Call for Stability
Lammy was unequivocal in condemning the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, including several tourists.
“We stand firmly against terrorism in all its forms,” he said. “The UK is committed to supporting both India and Pakistan in de-escalation efforts and is working behind the scenes to ensure this fragile ceasefire transforms into a lasting peace.”
The Foreign Secretary emphasized the UK’s consistent diplomatic outreach to both governments over recent weeks and acknowledged the efforts by British consular staff in Islamabad for their swift and responsive work in assisting British nationals during the recent crisis.
Bridging Dialogue Across Borders
According to the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Lammy praised “the steps taken by both Pakistan and India to secure an agreement to cease hostilities” and reiterated the need for sustained diplomatic engagement.
“Because of the deep and historic links between our populations and our governments,” Lammy said, “we are determined to play our part to counterterrorism and ensure this fragile ceasefire becomes a durable peace.”
Eye on New Delhi
Lammy confirmed that the UK is in active dialogue with Indian officials and plans are underway for his forthcoming visit to New Delhi. His trip to India is expected to focus on strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing cooperation under the UK’s Indo-Pacific strategy.
“India remains a key partner for the UK, and we are working to deepen our cooperation across trade, defense, technology, and people-to-people ties,” he said.
His upcoming trip to India comes at a crucial juncture, as the region recalibrates its diplomatic posture following India’s hardline response to the April terror attack, which included the unprecedented suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and the launch of Operation Sindoor.
A Fragile but Vital Peace
The May 10 ceasefire, which was facilitated through discreet international mediation, is now being viewed as a diplomatic milestone in Indo-Pak relations. For Britain, the agreement is not only about regional stability but also about safeguarding the interests of its own multicultural citizenry.
David Lammy’s approach – emphasizing peace, condemning terror, and reinforcing ties with both nations – reflects a renewed UK strategy aimed at securing influence in South Asia while keeping its domestic communities connected and reassured.
