Kashmir resolution to bring prosperity in Pak, India: Mirwaiz

Srinagar, December 23 : The Chairman of All Parties Hurriyet Conference, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has urged India and Pakistan to show farsightedness and resolve the Kashmir dispute before strengthening economic ties, asserting that economy of the two countries cannot prosper until they are politically stable.

After chairing a marathon meeting of the APHC Executive Council in Srinagar, the Mirwaiz in a media interview said, “Both the countries should realize that they cannot make compromises on political issues for short-term economic gains. The first priority should be the resolution of the Kashmir dispute and giving precedence to water, trade and other economic issues can have far reaching consequences.”

The APHC Chairman stated that the entire focus of Pak-India leadership had shifted to the economic activities. "Both the countries should keep in mind that bigger issues cannot be ignored for addressing smaller issues,” he said, adding, “If they resolve Kashmir issue, it will pave way for resolving other outstanding issues between them within the shortest possible time.”

Clarifying that Hurriyet is not against friendship or economic cooperation between the countries, the Mirwaiz, however, maintained, “We will oppose any move which goes against the interests of Kashmiris.”

Dismissing rumours of rift within the ranks of the Hurriyet Conference, he said, “Hurriyet represents cause and sacrifices of Kashmiris and all its constituents are committed to a cause. …stories that there is a rift …are totally baseless.”

Referring to the right of self-determination for Kashmiris, the Mirwaiz said, “It has become more relevant in the wake of revolutions in Arab world this year. Revolutions in Arab countries have made it clear that mighty powers have to bow before the supreme power of people. Our movement has become more relevant after mass movements led to toppling of powerful dictators,” he said.