Time frame to grant 'right of self-determination' to Kashmiris urge

Islamabad, Apr 3 (UNI) Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir leader Sardar Sikandar Hayat has urged both India and Pakistan to set a time frame to grant ''right to self-determination'' to the people of Kashmir.

While talking to members of a British parliamentary delegation here yesterday, the PoK ''Prime Minister'' said Kashmiris had not rendered sacrifices to invade some country but those unprecedented sacrifices were aimed at seeking their inalienable right of self-determination, the Pak Tribune today reported.

He said Kashmiris welcome the ongoing efforts between India and Pakistan to resolve all outstanding issues, including Kashmir.

No progress other than launching of bus service, exchange of delegations and opening of some points along LoC was forthcoming to settle the lingering Kashmir issue, he said.

Pointing out that India had also not pulled out security forces from Jammu and Kashmir, he said there was no let up in the state terrorism related incidents.

''Despite this situation, we still want that headway is made in the process of peace dialogue and CBMs,'' Mr Hayat said.

Praising President Pervez Musharraf for showing ''positive approach'' for the resolution of the Kashmir issue, he said, ''Pakistan has shown considerable flexibility and on the other hand India has always pursued the path of obduracy.'' The PoK leader praised the British parliamentarians and expatriate Kashmiris and Pakistanis in Europe and the UK for their efforts towards settlement of Kashmir issue in line with the aspirations of Kashmiris.

Kashmiris are confident that international community would lend support to their stance which is based on justice and they would succeed in attaining their right to self-determination, he added.

UNI XC VJ AT RS1815