ISLAMABAD/MUZAFFARABAD — Pakistan’s Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani reiterated yesterday Islamabad’s political, moral and diplomatic support to the Kashmiris saying his government would continue efforts for the resolution of the dispute according to the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Talking to a Kashmiri delegation led by Syed Yousuf Naseem, convener of All Parties Hurriyat Conference, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilani said Pakistan’s stance on the issue remained unchanged.
The delegation apprised the prime minister of the problems faced by Kashmiri refugees in Pakistan. Gilani assured them that the government would consider increasing the daily allowances of refugees.
Gilani said Pakistan wanted peace and stability in the region and therefore sought result-oriented talks with India.
Addressing the joint sitting of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly and AJK Council, also yesterday, the prime minister said, “We want friendly relations with all countries, including India.” He said talks were the only option to settle disputes. Gilani said it was the coalition government’s priority to provide jobs to unemployed youths. He said the program “Green and Skilled Kashmir” will be reviewed and all possible measures taken to make it operational.
The prime minister said the government was aware of the problems of the earthquake survivors and wants their early rehabilitation. He said abundant water resources available in Kashmir could be used for generating electricity not only to meet local needs but also for the adjoining areas.
Azad Kashmir Prime Minister Sardar Attique said all political forces should end their differences and stand united to face the challenges facing the country.
Attique said it was due to the efforts of the government and President Pervez Musharraf that $6.2 billion were pledged for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the devastated areas.
Journalist Killed by Wife
Well-known journalist and speechwriter of former Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz, Khalil Malik, was murdered by his third wife Saira Khan in Islamabad yesterday. Saira Khan was a reporter in a private TV channel.
The two were separated after Malik divorced Saira in November last year. Saira, according to police, committed suicide after killing Malik.
