ISLAMABAD: The United Kingdom on Sunday urged de-escalation of tensions between Pakistan and India over a militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, according to the Pakistani foreign ministry, amid fears that the two nuclear-armed neighbors may go to another war.
The statement came after Pakistani and Indian troops exchanged fire in disputed Kashmir for a third night in a row, officials said Sunday, as relations between the nuclear-armed rivals plunged to their lowest level in years.
New Delhi has accused Islamabad of involvement in the latest attack in a scenic tourist resort of Pahalgam on April 22, in which 26 tourists were killed. Pakistan has denied involvement and says it is ready to take part in a credible and transparent investigation.
Amid escalating tensions, Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar spoke to UK’s Foreign Secretary David Lammy and shared the current regional situation, and Indian accusations and unilateral measures, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.
“He reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to defend its national interests while continuing to promote peace and stability in the region,” the Pakistani foreign ministry said in a statement.
“UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized the importance of de-escalating the situation through dialogue and peaceful resolution of issues.”
The development came as Indian military held naval drills — releasing images of warships firing missiles — while the country’s security forces pressed on with their hunt for those behind the April 22 attack at a tourist hotspot in Pahalgam in Kashmir.
The military blamed Pakistan for the “unprovoked” firing of small arms along Kashmir’s Line of Control that separates the two countries.
“(Our) own troops responded effectively with appropriate small arms fire,” it said of the latest incident.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday in Islamabad, Pakistan’s information minister, Attaullah Tarar, said there was “no official confirmation” of any clashes at the border with India.
Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since their independence from British rule in 1947. Both rule it in part but claim it in full and have fought two wars over the Himalayan territory.
This is the second time since 2019 when the two nuclear-armed nations have come close to war over Kashmir.
UK urges de-escalation as Pakistan-India crisis deepens over Kashmir attack
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UK urges de-escalation as Pakistan-India crisis deepens over Kashmir attack
- The development comes as Indian military holds naval drills and releases images of warships firing missiles
- Deputy PM Ishaq Dar reiterates Pakistan’s resolve to defend its interests while promoting peace in the region
Saudi-backed Wafi Energy Pakistan announces 7.5 percent increase in profits last year
- Wafi Energy Pakistan operates one of country’s largest fuel retail, lubricants networks
- The company is also planning a Dubai-based subsidiary to expand its commercial activities
KARACHI: Wafi Energy Pakistan Limited, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia-based Wafi Energy Holding, on Friday announced a Rs3.54 billion ($12.6 million) profit last year, marking a 7.5 percent increase from the previous year.
In 2025, Wafi Energy acquired Shell Pakistan and added 35 new retail sites to its network, including a second eco-friendly Shell site built with recycled plastic, bringing the Shell retail network to over 680 sites nationwide.
The lubricants business continued strong performance across both consumer and industrial segments and Wafi Energy said had continued its growth in indirect and process oil segments, besides expanding its mining portfolio.
“We delivered a strong business performance in 2025 and importantly, we did so while investing to grow. Our focus through the year was clear – to expand in priority growth areas, establish Wafi Energy in Pakistan and strengthen the Shell customer experience,” Zubair Shaikh, Wafi Energy Pakistan’s chief executive officer, said in a statement.
“In 2026, our ambition is to accelerate growth, build shareholder value and continue investing in the energy future for Pakistan.”
Wafi Energy Pakistan Limited, formerly Shell Pakistan Limited, operates one of the country’s largest fuel retail and lubricants networks. Shell plc divested its majority stake in 2024, after which the company was rebranded under Saudi ownership while continuing to market fuels and lubricants under the Shell brand.
The company said it remains focused on operational excellence and growth.
“The company is also advancing its investment strategy by planning a Dubai-based subsidiary to expand commercial activities and strengthen its regional presence,” it said.
“This strategic move underscores Wafi Energy’s commitment to sustainable growth and expanding its footprint.”
