In a significant move, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed Pakistan's willingness to normalize relations with India, emphasizing the need to resolve all outstanding issues, including the Kashmir dispute, through peaceful dialogue. Speaking at a special session of the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) Legislative Assembly in Muzaffarabad on “Kashmir Solidarity Day,” Sharif reiterated his support for the Kashmiri people and called for meaningful talks with India.
Sharif urged India to move beyond its stance following the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, which revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and divided the region into two Union Territories. He stressed that India should honor its commitments to the United Nations and engage in dialogue to address the Kashmir issue. “We want all issues, including Kashmir, to be resolved through talks. India should come out of the mindset of August 5, 2019, and fulfill its promises to the UN,” Sharif said.
Dialogue as the Path Forward
The Prime Minister highlighted that dialogue is the only way forward for Pakistan and India, referencing the Lahore Declaration of 1999. This agreement, signed during former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's visit to Pakistan, aimed to promote peace and cooperation between the two nations. Sharif emphasized that peaceful negotiations are essential for regional stability and progress.
India's Stance on Kashmir
India, however, has maintained a firm position on Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as Ladakh, are and will always remain an integral part of the country. The relationship between the two nations deteriorated significantly after India revoked Article 370. New Delhi has consistently stated that normalizing relations with Pakistan is only possible in an environment free from terrorism, hostility, and violence.
Criticism of India's Military Buildup
During his address, Sharif also criticized India for its military buildup, arguing that the accumulation of weapons would not bring peace or improve the lives of people in the region. He urged India to adopt a wiser approach, emphasizing that peace is the key to progress and prosperity for both nations.
As tensions persist, Sharif's call for dialogue reflects Pakistan's desire to de-escalate conflicts and foster a peaceful resolution to longstanding disputes. However, with both countries holding firm positions, the path to reconciliation remains uncertain.
(With inputs from PTI)
