External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup on Thursday criticised Pakistan for “needlessly internationalising” the Kashmir issue, saying there are “no global dimensions” to the matter except in the minds of those who sought to internationalise a bilateral problem. “Kashmir is not the main cause of tension. The lack of peace and continued instability in the region is due to externally sponsored terrorism and Pakistan’s interference in the internal affairs of India,” Swarup said.

He also added that Pakistan should “vacate its illegal occupation in parts of Jammu and Kashmir and address the suffering caused to millions in those parts,” PTI reported.

Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain on Wednesday had accused India of “running away” from peace talks. Hussain had also said Pakistan had offered its assistance in a joint investigation into the Pathankot attack, which left seven people dead.

Bilateral relations between the two countries took a backseat after the attack on the Indian Air Force base. India’s National Investigation Agency has said it has proof of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masoor Azad’s involvement in the attack. Azad is believed to be in Pakistan.