Russia offers to mediate between India-Pak tensions

Russia on Friday offered help to reduce the escalating tension between India and Pakistan while adding that there can be a no better alternative to resolve all issues other than 'dialogue and peaceful means'.

According to a press statement released by Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi spoke to his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on a telephone to discuss the regional situation.

"Foreign Minister Qureshi appreciated Russia's balanced and constructive role in de-escalation of tensions in the region. The Russian Foreign Minister encouraged Pakistan and India to resolve all issues through dialogue and peaceful means."

"Foreign Minister Lavrov reiterated Russia's offer of mediation and provision of a venue for the talks between India and Pakistan. The Foreign Minister welcomed the Russian offer and added that he had acknowledged Russia's constructive role from the floor of the Joint Session of Parliament earlier in the day, which was well-received," statement added.

In addition, the two Foreign Ministers further agreed to continue consultations for the promotion of peace and stability in the region.

Pakistan on Friday released Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, two days after he was taken into custody by the Pakistan army when his MiG 21 fell in PoK (Pakistan-occupied Kashmir) while he was chasing Pakistani F-16 fighters which had transgressed into the Indian airspace.