Solve the Kashmir Issue Once and For All: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq

Time for Visionary Problem-Solving, Not Domestic Politicking

5 Dariya News (Muzaffar Bhat, Rouf Pampori)

Srinagar 25-May-2014

Reiterating his call to resolve the Kashmir issue once and for all, Hurriyat Conference (M) Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Sunday called upon the leadership of India and Pakistan to boldly move forward towards the start of a full-fledged peace process.“The two leaders must urgently work towards a just and lasting solution to the Kashmir Issue so that peace, prosperity and stability can become a reality in South Asia,” said Mirwaiz.

 The Huriyat (M) also welcomed any immediate steps – symbolic or otherwise – that might improve the relationship and build confidence between India and Pakistan. At the same time, he emphasized that the Kashmir Issue must not beignored or brushed aside. Precious time should not bewasted before moving forward towards a search for solutions. He stated: “There must be a serious and result-oriented process of dialogue. For this to happen, India and Pakistan must engage the people of Jammu & Kashmir as an active and true partner in the search for peace. For any lasting solution, Kashmiris must be involved.”

 Mirwaiz further stated that all parties – India, Pakistan and the people of Jammu & Kashmir – must engage with each other and put forward serious efforts to resolve the conflict. He explained that: “Efforts must be focused on finding a solution that accommodates the needs and interests of all parties and which upholds the Kashmiri people’s aspirations and right of self-determination. The solution will have to be acceptable to all. It mustultimately reflect the will of the people of Jammu & Kashmir.”

Stating that such an approach will require sincerity and statesmanship from all sides and at all levels, Mirwaiz expressed his concern regarding various statements issued by members of the outgoing Congress party over the past few days. In this regards, Mirwaiz stated:“Kashmiris have suffered long enough. Those in power and those in opposition share an equal responsibility and moral obligation to be part of the solution. Vital opportunities to gift a peaceful future to our future generations should no longer be consumed in domestic politicking. Let all the political parties of India, Pakistan and Jammu & Kashmir make a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir Issue their shared agenda.”Mirwaiz stated that the Huriyat (M) remains ready and willing to contribute positively towards any serious process to resolve the Kashmir Issue. “Kashmiris will be closely watching the developments between India and Pakistan. If we see any signs of a serious and courageous effort to find a solution, Kashmiris will definitely respond with an even greater sense of seriousness and courage.”