Kashmir is a core issue between Pakistan, India, says PM

ISLAMABAD: As tensions soar between the nuclear-armed rivals, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Monday reiterated that the disputed valley remained an issue between Pakistan and India and its resolution only would ensure durable peace in the region.

During a meeting with Sir Mark Lyall Grant, the National Security Adviser of the United Kingdom at his official residence in the capital, the prime minister said Pakistan was a peace-loving country and always believed in a policy of maintaining smooth relationships with the world including its neighbours.

He said the Kashmir issue must be resolved according to the United Nations (UN) resolutions and the commitments made by the previous Indian government.

The premier once again urged the international community to take notice of the serious human rights violations and atrocities of the Indian forces in the held Himalayan valley.

It was a high time to find out a solution to the decades-old issue of Kashmir which was as per the aspirations of the people of Kashmir, he added.

Exchanging views with the premier, Sir Mark Lyall Grant appreciated Pakistan’s policy of reaching out to other countries for establishing cordial relationships.

“We encourage and support your efforts for peaceful cooperation with your neighbouring countries,” he said.

Commenting on the ongoing military operations in the country, Sir Grant lauded Pakistan’s efforts for achieving huge successes in the war against terrorism and acknowledged the sacrifices made by the armed forces, police and law enforcement officials.

Sir Grant congratulated PM Nawaz on completing the International Monetary Fund (IMF) support programme and achieving macroeconomic stability.

“It is exceedingly positive to learn from DFID (Department for International Development) that Pakistan is showing remarkable improvement in the health and education sectors’, the UK’s National Security Adviser said.