Pak PM ready for meaningful talks with India on Kashmir

Muzaffarabad, Apr.30 : Pakistan Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Wednesday said that the people of Kashmir have sacrificed their lives and livelihood in their quest for self-determination, and therefore, his government is committed to ensuring that these sacrifices are not in vain.

Addressing a joint sitting of Legislative Assembly and Senate Council in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, Gilani said his government would like to hold meaningful talks with India on the Kashmir issue.

Gilani said Pakistan has always pursued the path of peace and is keen to provide opportunities to Kashmiris on either side of the subcontinental divide to meet each other. He also called for the promotion of tourism and trade across the Line of Control.

He said solution of Kashmir issue was essential for the regional development.

Gilani said legislators of Pakistan-administered Kashmir would be included in Pakistan delegations, and added that in the next federal budget, Rs. five million would be allocated as a grant to each member of the assembly.

He also promised to prepare a strategy for the setting up of a women's university in Pakistan Kashmir. He said the earthquake rehabilitation work will be stepped up in the region.

ANI