Sharif rakes up Kashmir, proposes 4-pt peace formula

Raking up Kashmir, Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday said the non-resolution of the issue reflected failure of the UN and proposed a 4-point “peace initiative” which includes demilitarisation of Kashmir and unconditional withdrawal of forces from Siachen. Addressing the UN General Assembly, he also proposed restraint by both countries from “use or the threat of use of force under any circumstances” and formalisation of the 2003 border ceasefire as part of the formula to ensure peaceful ties between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

“Cooperation, not confrontation, should define our relationship,” Sharif said while underlining the “primacy and urgency” of addressing the issues of Kashmir and peace and security between India and Pakistan. At the same time, he insisted that “consultations with Kashmiris, who are an integral part of the dispute, are essential to <g data-gr-id="13">evolving</g> a peaceful solution.” Contending that normalisation of relations with India has been his priority since he came to office, the Pakistan PM said the two countries “should address and resolve the causes of tension”.