Katy Gallagher (ACT, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Finance) Share this | Hansard source

Labor is concerned about the current situation in Kashmir, particularly following the Indian government's decision to revoke articles 35A and 370 of the Indian constitution that confer special protective status on the state of Jammu and Kashmir. We call on all parties to refrain from actions that may lead to further escalation or could affect the status of Jammu and Kashmir. We endorse the UN Secretary-General's statement recalling the 1972 Simla agreement, which states that 'the final status of Jammu and Kashmir is to be settled by peaceful means'. We understand the concerns of the community here in Australia who are unable to contact family and friends, and we urge the full restoration of communications in the Kashmir Valley. Labor will continue to monitor developments in the region.