Make Line of Control 'Line of Commerce': APHC

Islamabad, Jun 23: "Show flexibility in peace talks with Pakistan, include Kashmiris in these negotiations urged the Leaders of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC). They also demanded that the 'Line of Control' be changed to the 'Line of Commerce'.

Speaking at a reception hosted by Prime Minister of Pakistan occupied Kashmir, Sardar Attique Ahmed Khan, APHC Chairman Mirwaiz Omar Farooq on Sunday, June 22 said the AJK Government and people have played a memorable role to promote the Kashmir cause. He said Kashmiris from both the sides had suffered a lot and now wished for a combined decision of their fate, adding the conglomerate was satisfied over the new Government's decision to resume dialogue with the Kashmiri leadership. ''Prime Ministers and Foreign Ministers of both countries met during the UN and SAARC conferences but no decision was taken,'' he said, adding that the third party - ''Kashmiris'' should now be included in the talks.

According to a private Online news agency, Mr Ahmed said the Line of Control should be changed into the Line of Commerce and open commerce should be started. ''Kashmiris have sacrificed a lot for the freedom of Kashmir and the talks would be unproductive until the inclusion of Kashmiris in Pak-India dialogue.'' ''We are organising a seven-day International Kashmir Festival in September and October and have invited Mr Farooq and the leadership of Hurriyat Conference to attend it,'' he said.

UNI