The nuclear powers India and Pakistan have agreed to cease fire for the first time in nearly 20 years. The Washington Post reports.
The commanders of the military of India and Pakistan have agreed to stop shooting on the line of control and strictly abide by all agreements starting February 25. The line of control is the demarcation line between India and Pakistan in Kashmir, which is actually the border between states.
For the first time since 2003, such a step has been taken. The Washington Post suggests that this will reduce tensions between the countries.
RIA Novosti, citing the Indian Ministry of Defense, writes that the meeting participants confirmed that the existing communication mechanisms will be used to resolve any unforeseen situations or misunderstandings.
The territory of the former principality of Jammu and Kashmir is actually divided between India and Pakistan, although each side claims complete control over the region. A large number of Indian and Pakistani troops are constantly concentrated on the demarcation line (line of control, conditional border of countries).
The state is considered one of the most turbulent in India. The unrecognized state of Azad Kashmir, de facto part of Pakistan, also claims the entire territory of the region.