Peace in South Asia linked to Kashmir issue: Kasuri

Islamabad, Dec 26: A lasting peace in South Asia (SA), which is desirable for both India and Pakistan, is possible only by resolving the core issue of Kashmir, said former Pakistan foreign minister Khurshid Mahmood Kasuri.

Addressing a news conference here, Mr Kasuri, a PML leader and a candidate from NA-140, said the world community should pressure India to agree to the four-point proposal by President Pervez Musharraf, which is the most viable and effective solution to the long-standing Kashmir issue. ''In the current environment of globalisation, it is essential that we have friendly relations with neighbouring countries, which would not only promote trade, it would also ensure peace in the region,'' he observed. ''During my tenure, I successfully promoted better relations with China and India, negotiated the Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipeline project and helped to raise the image of Pakistan among the comity of nations,'' the Associated Press of pakistan quoted him as saying.

The former minister said for trade with India, both the governments agreed with his proposal that it was better to open and use the Ganda Singh Wala border rather than Wagah.

Mr Kasuri pointed out that a number of developmental works, including gas and power supply, and road networks were carried out in the district during his tenure. I had fulfilled all promises made to the people in the last elections, and would continue to serve the people if elected again, he added.

UNI