Pak wants to resolve Kashmir issue through dialouge: Gilani

Islamabad, Apr 7 (UNI) Pakistan Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani today said that his country wants the resolution of all outstanding issues with India, including the core issue of Kashmir, through dialogue.

Talking to visiting UK Home Secretary Jacqui Smith at the PM house here, Mr Gilani said his government would pursue friendly relations with all its neighbours including India.

On the issue of terrorism, the Prime Minister said terrorism is a global phenomenon and the world community should focus on its root causes which stem from economic disparity and unresolved political issues.

He reiterated the resolve to adopt a multi-pronged strategy to address the issue of terrorism and extremism, and added that the new democratic government would incorporate both short and long term measures to confront terrorism.

The Prime Minister also underscored the need to further expand the ties between UK and Pakistan in all areas. He also hoped to see a prosperous Afghanistan saying a strong and stable Afghanistan is in the interest of Pakistan.

Mrs Jacqui Smith appreciated the role of Pakistan in curtailing terrorism and extremism and said the UK government would provide its full support to the new democratic government. She extended London's full support to the new democratic government and expressed confidence for Pakistan's early return to the Commonwealth.

UNI XC ARB AT HS1908