Batting for friendly ties between India and Pakistan, former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah today asked Prime Ministers of the two nations to ignore the “inimical forces” and make a new beginning for lasting peace in the region.
The president of opposition National Conference said the two countries should engage in a renewed peace process and carry forward meaningful dialogue.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Pakistan counterpart Nawaz Sharief must bury inimical elements who have developed vested interest in hostilities between the two nations and engage themselves in a renewed peace process,” Abdullah said while addressing the party workers at Banihal in Ramban district.
He said the two countries have no option but to talk in the larger interest of peace and freeing the people from shackles of hatred and mistrust.
“Peace and friendly relations between India and Pakistan will enhance the quality of life of millions, who have paid dearly due to element of suspicion and hostilities over the years,” he said.
Abdullah, as also his son and NC’s Working President Omar Abdullah were in Ramban to personally convey their condolences to the bereaved family of Anila Shaheen, party’s provincial vice president who passed away the other day.
Meanwhile, hardline separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani claimed that Kashmir is not a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan and said that world powers should address it in its “real perspective”.