Delhi, May 01 (V7N)- In a diplomatic outreach aimed at de-escalating rising tensions in South Asia, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has held phone conversations with leaders of Pakistan and India, urging both nations to resume communication and cooperate following the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir.

According to a US State Department statement on Wednesday (April 30):

Rubio requested Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to condemn the attack and cooperate fully in the ongoing investigation.

He also encouraged Pakistan to lower tensions, restore direct communication with India, and contribute to regional peace and stability.

In a follow-up call with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Rubio offered condolences for the victims and reaffirmed US support in the fight against terrorism.

He also urged India to engage with Pakistan diplomatically to prevent further escalation.

Both India and Pakistan reportedly reiterated their commitments to holding those responsible accountable, and the US emphasized the need for continued cooperation against terrorism.

India's foreign minister confirmed the conversation with Rubio on his official X (formerly Twitter) account Thursday morning.

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