India's Stance on US Trade Deal and Pakistan's Actions in Gilgit-Baltistan

During the weekly briefing by the Indian Foreign Ministry, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed various inquiries, elaborating on significant topics such as the India-US trade agreement, illegal immigration, relations with neighboring countries, and global partnerships.

The Indian government has issued a statement expressing strong objections to Pakistan's plan to conduct a so-called 'general election' in the illegally occupied Indian territory of Gilgit-Baltistan. Pakistan is set to hold these elections on June 7, 2026, which has drawn sharp criticism from India. The Indian government reiterated that the entire Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, including the so-called Gilgit-Baltistan, are integral parts of India. It emphasized that the legal and complete merger of Jammu and Kashmir with India occurred in 1947 and is irreversible.

New Delhi also stated that Pakistan's actions cannot distract from the serious human rights violations, political repression, economic exploitation, and infringement of freedoms occurring there. India firmly rejected any attempts by Pakistan to alter the status of the illegally occupied territories. The government stressed that Pakistan continues to illegally occupy Indian territories and must vacate them immediately.

Regarding statements made by spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during the press conference, he noted that discussions on advancing the interim trade agreement and bilateral trade with the United States have been positive and constructive. The Commerce Ministry has already issued a press release on this matter. Jaiswal mentioned that the chief negotiator from the US Trade Representative's office visited India with his team, and both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing this process.

On the issue of foreign nationals residing illegally in India, the Foreign Ministry clarified that legal provisions are in place to address such cases. Randhir Jaiswal stated that if any foreign national, including Bangladeshi citizens, is found to be residing illegally in India, legal action will be taken against them. He explained that a bilateral arrangement exists between India and Bangladesh for the deportation process. India sends cases to the Bangladeshi side for citizenship verification, and once confirmed, the deportation process is initiated. He also noted that several such requests are currently pending with Bangladesh, and India hopes for their swift resolution to facilitate the return of illegal residents.

The Foreign Ministry reiterated its clear stance on the Jammu and Kashmir issue. Randhir Jaiswal mentioned that the Swiss ambassador in Delhi recently visited Jammu and Kashmir and held several meetings. He stated that there is no justification for Pakistan's objections. He firmly asserted that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Additionally, regarding Pakistan's concerns over the Chenab-Beas link tunnel project, the Foreign Ministry clarified India's position. Pakistan has accused India of diverting the Chenab River's water towards the Beas, claiming it violates the Indus Water Treaty and uses water as a weapon. In response, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the Indus Water Treaty is currently suspended and will remain so until Pakistan completely halts cross-border terrorism. India believes that terrorism and dialogue cannot coexist.

On the visit of Nepal's Foreign Minister to India, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson remarked that the relationship with Nepal is multifaceted. Development cooperation, people-to-people contact, trade, and investment are central to the bilateral relationship. He mentioned that the Nepalese Foreign Minister will meet with the Indian Foreign Minister, and comprehensive discussions on all these topics will take place. India is committed to further strengthening this partnership.

Furthermore, the Foreign Ministry expressed deep sorrow over the Malviya Nagar fire incident in Delhi, which resulted in the deaths of thirteen foreign nationals. The deceased included citizens from Mozambique, Nigeria, Liberia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh, Congo, and Iraq.

Regarding the deportation of Indian citizens from the United States, the Foreign Ministry provided updates. Jaiswal stated that so far this year, 1,076 Indian citizens have been sent back from the US, compared to 3,567 last year. He noted that discussions regarding migration and movement between India and the US are ongoing. Jaiswal emphasized that both countries are focused on curbing illegal migration while ensuring that legitimate migration is not adversely affected.

In response to questions about defense relations between India and Russia, Randhir Jaiswal stated that the defense ties between the two nations have been strong for a long time. Referring to the Sukhoi-57 program, he mentioned that specific information related to this topic can be obtained from the Ministry of Defense. He affirmed that strategic cooperation between India and Russia continues to strengthen.