Ceasefire with Pakistan Was a Bilateral Move: Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri Clarifies to Parliamentary Standing Committee

New Delhi, May 19, 2025 – In a significant revelation, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri told the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs that the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan was strictly a bilateral decision, dismissing any suggestion of external mediation. Misri emphasized that the military de-escalation was achieved without any nuclear posturing by Pakistan, according to reliable sources present at the meeting.

The committee meeting, chaired by senior Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, saw active participation from lawmakers across the political spectrum. Among those present were TMC’s Abhishek Banerjee, Congress leaders Rajeev Shukla and Deepender Hooda, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, and BJP MPs Aparajita Sarangi and Arun Govil.

Trump’s Mediation Claims Rejected

The discussion gained momentum when some Opposition members raised questions about former U.S. President Donald Trump’s claims that his administration played a crucial role in halting hostilities between India and Pakistan. Addressing these concerns, Misri reiterated, “The ceasefire decision was taken bilaterally, based on diplomatic channels and mutual understanding. There was no third-party intervention involved.”

No Nuclear Signalling from Pakistan

Responding to queries about the threat perception during the conflict, Misri firmly stated that Pakistan did not engage in any nuclear signalling, reaffirming that the standoff remained within the realm of conventional warfare. “There was no escalation to the nuclear level from Pakistan. The situation was managed with strategic restraint on both sides,” he added.

Pakistan’s Use of Chinese Platforms: No Strategic Advantage

Some MPs also questioned whether Pakistan deployed Chinese military platforms during the conflict. Dismissing concerns of technological superiority, Misri said, “It does not matter what platforms were used. The Indian Air Force effectively neutralized threats and successfully targeted Pakistani air bases.”

India’s Firm Diplomatic and Military Response Praised

The Foreign Secretary’s briefing underlined India’s robust diplomatic stance and military preparedness. Sources said lawmakers across parties appreciated the clarity offered by the ministry and India’s assertive response to external and internal challenges.

This closed-door briefing is being seen as a vital step in enhancing parliamentary transparency on national security issues and reaffirming India’s position on non-interference by foreign powers in regional matters.