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Calling for an early resumption of a 'meaningful and result-oriented' bilateral talks with India, Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that the non-resolution of all outstanding issues (including Kashmir) between the two countries is hampering counter-terrorism efforts in the region.
Speaking during a meeting at the Prime Minister's house in Islamabad, Gilani said 'peace and stability in South Asia could only be guaranteed if all outstanding issues between Pakistan and India, including the Kashmir dispute, were resolved.'
"Pakistan has shown commitment to reversing the course of confrontation in South Asia. We are ready to start a journey of peace and accommodation in order to provide a better environment to the people to prosper and develop," The Daily Times quoted Gilani, as saying. Gilani reiterated that the people of Kashmir must be included in the dialogue process to make it more meaningful and 'result-oriented.'
"Pakistan is committed to finding a just and peaceful resolution to the Kashmir dispute in accordance with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people," Gilani added. Gilani said that Islamabad would continue supporting the people of Kashmir in their, what he termed, as a 'freedom struggle.' "Pakistan would continue extending political, moral and diplomatic support to the people of Jammu and Kashmir in their struggle," Gilani said.