India's deadly missile strikes on Pakistan territory on Wednesday elicited reactions from around the world:
United States:
"It's a shame, we just heard about it …I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. They have been fighting for a long time… I just hope it ends very quickly," US President Donald Trump said.
United Kingdom:
"Our message would be that we are a friend, a partner to both countries. We stand ready to support both countries. Both have a huge interest in regional stability, in dialogue, in de-escalation and anything we can do to support that, we are here and willing to do," UK Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said, adding that they are "continuing to monitor the situation closely."
China:
"We are willing to work together with the international community and continue to play a constructive role in easing the current tensions," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said.
Russia:
Moscow's Foreign Ministry said in a statement it was "deeply concerned by the escalation of military confrontation" and urged "parties to exercise restraint to prevent further deterioration," hoping the tensions could be "resolved through peaceful, diplomatic means."
France:
"We understand India's desire to protect itself against the scourge of terrorism, but we obviously call on both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint to avoid escalation and, of course, to protect civilians," Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, said. "I don't think anyone has an interest in a lasting confrontation between India and Pakistan."
Barrot also added that he would be speaking with his counterparts in India and Pakistan.
United Nations:
"The Secretary-General is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the Line of Control and international border. He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries. The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said.
United Arab Emirates:
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE deputy prime minister and foreign minister, called to heed "the voices calling for dialogue and mutual understanding to prevent military escalation, strengthen stability in South Asia, and avoid further regional tensions."
