Altaf proposes all parties conference on Kashmir

06 Dec, 2004

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Chief Altaf Hussain has proposed a round table conference of all the political and religious parties on Kashmir issue. He also suggested for forming a 'code of ethics' to be followed by all political and religious parties with having a main point of not declaring each other infidels or traitors. In his telephonic speech at a large public gathering in Nishtar Park on Sunday from the party's London's office, he vowed to continue his efforts for improved ties between Pakistan and India.
Altaf Hussain also suggested a visit of Sindh Chief Minister to India to strengthen the relations between the two countries.
He demanded the opening of 'Khokhrapar border' and added, "If the government does not open the border then the people of Sindh would open it by themselves."
While referring to his remarks terming the division of Indian subcontinent inappropriate during the International Conference in Delhi, the Muttahida chief said that many people criticised my comments and propagated it negatively, however, "I had added that after 57 years of division, Pakistan and India should realise and accept each other with open hearts."
He said Quaid-e-Azam himself negated the 'Two-Nation Theory' and quoted Jinnah's statement when he was leaving for Karachi from Delhi after partition that Muslims left behind in India should live like loyal citizens of India.
Altaf Hussain said that Muslim minority provinces waged the struggle for Pakistan, whereas, the province of Punjab voted in favour of Unionist Party and rejected the two nation theory.
He added, "Today, Punjab is the biggest champion of two nation theory," and challenged all the intellectuals for an open debate in this context.
The MQM chief asked the Sindh MPAs to pass a bill that if any body sets up a factory in the province, the locals should be given priority in jobs.
Altaf Hussain said that he would continue his struggle for the rights of Sindh and the people of province.
He observed that Pakistan was going through a crucial phase as the interests of 'International Powers' has changed in South Asian Region, and all the political and religious parties of the country should realise the present circumstances and work for the stability of the country.
Altaf Hussain rendered an apology to all political and religious parties if MQM had unintentionally practised any excesses on them.
The Muttahida chief said that he stated in India that the Kashmir issue could not be resolved without the participation and aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
While addressing the gathering, Sindh Chief Minister, Dr Arbab Ghulam Rahim said this public meeting is a referendum against extremists and people wanted President Musharraf to stay in uniform.
He said the Muttahida Majlis-i-Amal public meeting held last Sunday was a failure and MMA meeting being held in Multan on December 5 has also proved to be an utter fiasco.
"Today's MMA public meeting has totally failed being attended by only 2 to 3 thousand people," Sindh CM claimed.
On the occasion, Farooq Sattar, Imtiaz Sheikh, Abdul Khaliq Baloch, Nisar Panwar and others also addressed the rally.

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