Caretaker Prime Minister Mohammadmian Soomro on Wednesday said that Kashmir dispute needed to be resolved in accordance with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people for a sustainable peace in the South Asia.
"Pakistan has always supported the just cause of Kashmir and resolution of this issue will lead to a sustainable peace in South Asia," the Prime Minister said while talking to Prime Minister Azad Jammu and Kashmir Sardar Atique Ahmad Khan, who called on him here at the PM Secretariat. The Prime Minister said the relief and reconstruction activities in AJK would continue with provision of necessary financial resources as well as expertise.
Today AJK, he added, has the best built universities, hospitals, clinics, schools, network of roads and infrastructure in line with the government's strategy of 'build back better'. He said that through these reconstruction activities, thousands of new houses are being built in the earthquake affected areas thus increasing the economic activates and generating thousands of new jobs. He said that most of the affected people have been moved into their new homes while others are in the process of completing their residences.
The Prime Minister said the spirit the people of Pakistan from Karachi to Khyber had exhibited during the earthquake catastrophe was a source of pride. The people, he said, deserve all the appreciation for their dedication and devotion for standing by their Kashmiri brethren in their hour of difficulty.
The Prime Minister said the government of Pakistan was committed to provide all facilities to the people of AJK so that their quality of life would improve and they could play their part in building a prosperous Kashmir.
Prime Minister assured that Government of Pakistan will continue providing support to AJK for its development projects and expressed confidence that this will help create more job opportunities as well as economic growth in AJK.
He particularly mentioned the potential for hydel energy and tourism in AJK as well as small and medium enterprises which will increase economic activity, enhancing income level and bring progress and prosperity for the people.
Sardar Atique congratulated the Prime Minister on assuming the office of the caretaker Prime Minister and expressed confidence on his leadership for holding of free, fair and transparent elections. The two Prime Ministers also reviewed the development projects in AJK. Sardar Atique appreciated Government of Pakistan for enhancing funds for AJK in the budget for development.