Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said here on Thursday, Pakistan favours a diplomatic solution to the Iranian nuclear issue, with firm belief in Irans legitimate right to peaceful uses of nuclear technology.
"While we oppose nuclear weapons proliferation, we firmly believe that Iran's legitimate right to peaceful uses of nuclear technology under appropriate IAEA safeguards should be respected," the Prime Minister said addressing the banquet given to visiting Iranian First Vice President, Dr Parviz Davoudi here.
Shaukat Aziz in his address covered a whole range of bilateral relations in various fields of life and economy in the regional as well as international perspective.
He said, peace and stability in Afghanistan are in the interest of Pakistan and the entire region. "We are confident that the government and people of Afghanistan shal1 overcome the remaining challenges and we will continue to extend our support to them."In South Asia, he said, Pakistan has been pursuing a just and durable solution of the longstanding Kashmir dispute in accordance with the wishes of the Kashmiri people.
"Such a settlement should be acceptable to Pakistan and India, and above all the Kashmiri people. The composite dialogue with India is a useful mechanism and we shall pursue it sincerely", he maintained.
Prime Minister Aziz said, Pakistan will continue to support the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iraq. "We favour a speedy political transition, restoration of peace and reconstruction of the country. The international community must help restore stability and normalcy in Iraq."
He said, the Palestinian problem continues to pose a major threat to international peace and security, adding, "Pakistan believes that a durable settlement can only be achieved by the attainment of a homeland by the Palestinian people." "The international community must facilitate an early settlement and respect the wishes of the Palestinian people."
Prime Minister said, "terrorism is a menace that threatens us all. Pakistan condemns terrorism in all its forms and remains committed to the international campaign against terrorism. "We also believe that a lasting solution of this problem requires a holistic approach including resolution of the root-causes of terrorism."
He said, "together with our Iranian brethren we reject the attempts by some to link terrorism to our noble faith. Islam is a religion of peace and tolerance. It abhors violence and extremism
"It is our duty as Muslims to project Islam in its true light. We must avoid a clash of civilisations and instead promote inter-civilisation dialogue and harmony", he added.
Shaukat said, "Pakistan and Iran are united by a common faith and culture as well as a shared history and geography. Rooted in these strong commonalties, Pakistan-Iran relations have a sound and secure foundation."
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