Pakistan wants peaceful resolution of Kashmir: Aziz

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan wants peaceful settlement of the Kashmir issue in accordance with the Kashmiris’ aspirations, Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz told Indian Chief Election Commissioner TS Krishna on Saturday.

Mr Krishna called on Mr Aziz at Prime Minister’s House. Mr Aziz said President General Pervez Musharraf's visit to India was productive and relations between both countries were improving. He said the start of the Muzaffarabad-Srinagar bus service, plans for the Lahore-Amritsar bus, special buses for Sikh pilgrims and the proposed reopening of the Khokhrapar-Monabao rail link were important confidence building measures as part of the composite dialogue process between both countries.

The prime minister said more meaningful progress in bilateral ties could only be made if progress in relations moved in tandem with progress on the Kashmir issue. He said Pakistan and India should demonstrate magnanimity, flexibility and courage to resolve their differences. Mr Aziz said elections played an important role in the democratic process. He said a healthy parliament with a vibrant opposition ensured good governance. He said the Pakistani media was free and press freedom was important to strengthening democracy. app

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