Cross-LoC trade may help resolve Kashmir dispute: Daultana

24 Oct, 2008

Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Broadcasting, Azeem Daultana on Thursday said opening of trade route across the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir has firmed up the hope to see resolution of the long-standing dispute in the near future.
In his comments on the opening of first ever trade link between Azad Kashmir and Occupied Kashmir through Muzaffarabad and occupied Srinagar during the last 61 years, he said that the beginning of bilateral trade process has filled the heart of Kashmiris with joy, enabling them to meet with their near and dear.
Talking to APP, Azeem Daultana said steps have been taken to enhance Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) so that Pa-India parleys on key issues could start soon. He termed trade process the first step toward strengthening bilateral ties, which would further improve economic conditions of people on both sides.
Answering another question regarding adoption of national security policy resolution by Parliament, he said it was a milestone in country's parliamentary history that would help eliminate terrorism. It was third session of its nature in the country's history, which reflects the commitment of the present government to keep the parliament united.
Hailing the resolution mainly emphasising on dialogue and development in the troubled areas, the Parliamentary Secretary said it was historic day on Wednesday when a joint resolution was adopted which also bears the broad parameter and policy guideline with regard to national security. He appreciated formation of a committee from the two houses of parliament, which will monitor and review the guideline identified in the resolution.
The passage of resolution also shows that the entire nation has joined hands to eliminate terrorism and extremism, he added. Replying to another question, he said that the overall atmosphere of parliament during in-camera session was excellent as all members participated in the debate on national security. He said that the government was committed to rooting out terrorism, hoping that the joint resolution would have positive impact in this regard.

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