Independence day speech: Pakistan PM seeks global community's role in resolving Kashmir dispute

Neighbouring Pakistan is also celebrating 70th anniversary of Independence day a day ahead of India. The day began with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital along with a 21-gun salute

Interim Prime Minister of Pakistan Shahid Khaqan Abbasi in his first Independence Day speech on Monday called upon the international community to play role in resolving Kashmir dispute.

Neighbouring Pakistan is also celebrating 70th anniversary of Independence day, a day ahead of India. The day began with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital along with a 21-gun salute in each provincial capital, reports The Dawn.

Abbasi in his message on the Independence Day said Kashmir dispute should be resolved ''in conformity with UN resolutions on the subject with a view to ensuring durable peace in the region''.

He said, '' It is incumbent upon the international community to play its role in the resolution of regional conflicts, particularly Kashmir dispute. ''

''Pakistan desires positive and constructive relationships with all countries of the world, especially with its neighbors on basis of sovereign equality, '' he said.

On peace and prosperity in the South Asia region, he said ''the people of South Asia have suffered enormously in the last fifty years due to the festering conflicts. Until those conflicts are resolved amicably people of the region cannot achieve prosperity and progress.''

The main ceremony of the day was held at Islamabad's Convention Centre, where President Mamnoon Hussain hoisted the Pakistani flag. Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Chinese Vice Premier Wang Yang - who is the chief guest - and all three chiefs of the armed services are present at the ceremony.

President Mamnoon Hussain, in his address, called for unity among the people for a developed Pakistan. He said it is time to forget "personal grievances" and stand by the Constitution, apparently referring to Sharif's ouster as prime minister and his charge that his removal was "pre-planned".

Shahid Abbasi, who held the position of Minister of commerce under Yousuf Raza Gillani's regime, was elected as the prime minister after the disqualification of former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif by the Supreme Court in connection with the Panama Papers. Pakistan celebrates Independence Day on August 14, a day before India.

(With agency inputs)