Germany's Merz calls on India and Pakistan to de-escalate

New German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called on India and Pakistan to de-escalate after India launched overnight attacks across the border, bringing the two rival nuclear powers to the brink of another war.

"It is now more important than ever to keep calm," Merz said during his inaugural visit to Paris on Wednesday.

He stressed the need for "prudence and reason," adding that "no one in the region should have any interest in further escalation."

Merz said he and French President Emmanuel Macron were deeply concerned by last night's clashes between India and Pakistan, which came following a terrorist attack in the Indian-administered part of the contested Kashmir region which New Delhi has blamed on Pakistan.

Islamabad denies the allegations.

"We remain in contact with our partners in Europe and the region, as well as with the parties to the conflict, and are endeavouring to exert our influence," Merz said.