International community should play due role for equitable solution of Kashmir conundrum: Dastgir

ISLAMABAD : Minister of Defence, Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan addressed members of the Foreign Affairs and Defence Committees of the Italian Parliament Friday.

He was received by Francesco Saverio Garofani, President of
the Defence Committee and Hon. Andrea Manciulli, President of the Italian
Parliamentary Delegation to NATO Parliamentary Assembly and Deputy
President of the Foreign Affairs Committee at the Chamber of Deputies.

The Minister spoke about Pakistan’s role in regional stability and
the efforts undertaken by it in eradicating terrorism. He stated that
Pakistan had rendered tremendous sacrifices to cleanse its territory of
terrorists and extremists. He elaborated on the strategy adopted by
Pakistan in fighting terrorism and the National Action Plan. Terming
terrorism as an international phenomenon, he stated that combined effort of
all countries was required to fight this menace.

He said that regional peace in South Asia was only possible with
peace in Afghanistan and improved ties between Pakistan and India. He
stressed that it was imperative to settle the Kashmir dispute in accordance
with the relevant UN resolutions. Peace and economic development in the
region would remain a mirage in the absence of settlement of regional
disputes.

He further said international community should play a vital role for the equitable solution of the Kashmir issue which is lingering on for the last 70 years despite best struggle of the Kashmiris. He stressed upon the international community to resolve the issue according to the resolutions of the UN so that Kashmiri people could lead their lives in a peaceful atmosphere.

The Italian parliamentarians appreciated and commended Pakistan in
its fight against terrorism. They reiterated the desire of Italy to enhance
its relations with Pakistan. The talk of the Minister was greatly
appreciated.