Russia Backs India, Tells Pak To Take 'Effective Steps' To Contain Terror Groups

New Delhi: Russia today said it expected Islamabad to take "effective" steps to stop the activities of terrorist groups in its territory as it voiced concern over "aggravation" of the situation along the Line of Control between India and Pakistan.

It also asked the two neighbours not to allow any escalation of tension and settle their disputes through negotiations.

In a statement, Russia said it stands for "decisive struggle" against terrorism in all its manifestations.

"We are concerned with the aggravation lately of the situation along the line of control between India and Pakistan.

"We are calling on the parties not to allow any escalation of tension and to settle the existing problems by political and diplomatic means through negotiations. We stand for decisive struggle against terrorism in all its manifestations.

"We expect that the Government of Pakistan should take effective steps in order to stop the activities of terrorist groups in the territory of the country," the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The statement came amid heightened tension between India and Pakistan after the Indian Army carried out surgical strikes on seven terror launch pads across the LoC on the intervening night of September 28 and 29.