India, Pakistan agree on stoppage of firing, military action: S Jaishankar

In a major diplomatic breakthrough, India and Pakistan have reached an understanding to initiate "full and immediate ceasefire", Vikram Misri, the secretary for external affairs said. 

Misri said, "The DGMO of Pakistan called the DGMO of India at 1535 hours this earlier this afternoon, it was agreed between them that both sides would stop all firing and military action on land, in the air and sea, with effect from 1700 hours IST today. Instructions have been given on both sides to give effect to this understanding. The DGMOs will talk again on May 12, at 1200 hours."   Both DGMOs are scheduled to talk again on May 12 at 12 pm. 

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that both nations have reached an understanding on "stoppage of firing and military action."

 

In a post on X, Jaishankar said, "India and Pakistan have today worked out an understanding on stoppage of firing and military action. India has consistently maintained a firm and uncompromising stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. It will continue to do so."  The suspension of Indus Water Treaty will continue. There is no decision to hold talks on any other issue at any other place.           Earlier, US President Donald Trump made the announcement via his official social media handle, where he revealed that the agreement had been reached after an extended round of negotiations.

 

“After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a FULL AND IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE,” Trump posted.

 

He went on to commend both nations for their conduct during the discussions. “Congratulations to both Countries on using Common Sense and Great Intelligence. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” Trump said.

 

While the post did not include details about the terms of the ceasefire or the specific issues addressed during the talks, it marks a significant step towards de-escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

 

The development comes amid heightened regional tensions, including cross-border strikes, drone attacks, and airspace restrictions, which had raised concerns of a broader conflict.  US Secretary of State Marco Rubio wrote on X, "Over the past 48 hours, @VP Vance and I have engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials, including Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, and National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Asim Malik.

 

I am pleased to announce the Governments of India and Pakistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire and to start talks on a broad set of issues at a neutral site.

 

We commend Prime Ministers Modi and Sharif on their wisdom, prudence, and statesmanship in choosing the path of peace."