We are concerned that the annulment of Article 370 of the Constitution of India on 5 August 2019, which accords special status to Jammu-Kashmir, could further increase the existing tension, the statement said.

Stating that they sincerely hope for the resolution of the problem through dialogue and within the framework of the relevant UN resolutions, the ministry underlined that the legitimate interests of all people of Jammu-Kashmir, as well as Pakistan and India, should be observed.

"We are ready to contribute to easing the tension in the region if the parties give consent," the ministry said.

ILKHA