Pak rakes up Kashmir issue at NAM summit

Sharm-el Sheikh, Jul 15 (PTI) Pakistan Wednesday used the
Non-Aligned Movement forum to rake up the Kashmir issue,
linking its resolution to "durable peace" in South Asia, even
as it cited some "forward movement" in its ties with India.

"We believe durable peace in South Asia is achievable. It
will be facilitated by the resolution of all outstanding
disputes, including Jammu and Kashmir," Pakistan Prime
Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani said in his address at the summit
of 118 NAM countries in this Red Sea resort.

Noting that there "has recently been some forward
movement" in Indo-Pak relations, he said "We hope to sustain
this momentum and move towards comprehensive engagement."

"The peace dividend for the 1.5 billion people in the
region would be enormous," the Pakistani leader said.

"The advancement of Pakistan's economic development goals
is possible only in an environment of regional peace and
stability. We are, therefore, steadfastly pursuing friendly
and cooperative relations with our neighbours on the basis of
equality, mutual interest, and mutual benefit," he said.

Gilani also said that peace and stability is Afghanistan
is in Pakistan's vital interest.

On the offensive against Taliban, he said Pakistan is
"engaged in a resolute national effort to eliminate terrorism"
but maintained that "military means alone will not suffice".

He pitched for a multi-dimensional strategy, particularly
which addresses the "root causes". Sustainable success would
come from "resolving the long-standing political disputes and
promoting socio-economic development," he said. PTI