US encourages dialogue between India and Pakistan

Washington: Amidst simmering tension between India and Pakistan after shelling across the border, the United States has said it encourages dialogue between the two South Asian neighbors.

"We certainly support dialogue between the countries. There have been some steps over the past year, that you know, where there have been more positive exchanges. Obviously, there's more work that needs to be done," US State Department Spokesperson Jen Psaki said Monday.

Psaki was responding to questions on flare up in tension between the two countries after cross border shelling.

"Our thoughts would go out to the families of any lives who have been lost. We certainly remain concerned and watch over tensions along the border, and we encourage dialogue between the countries," she said.