Srinagar, Sep 8: National Conference working president and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has welcomed signing of the much-awaited liberalized visa agreement between India and Pakistan.
According to a NC spokesman, Omar Abdullah said that such steps would go a long way in regaining trust and give impetus to people to people contact. “This is a significant move, such steps would facilitate and contribute positively in all measures aimed at bringing thaw in the ties between the two neighbors and resolving issues amicably and in peaceful atmosphere,” Omar said.
“The smooth relations between India and Pakistan have good effect on our state and bad relations create an adverse atmosphere. So we must welcome the dialogue process between the two countries,” he said.
“Internal dialogue between the state and the Centre is also of significant importance and should be taken up on priority,” he added.
The Chief Minister hoped that both the countries would devote attention towards resolving smaller issues like converting cross-LoC trade into normal trade from the present barter status.
“Our party and Government will continue to play its role as a facilitator of dialogue between New Delhi and Islamabad and the Central Government and the state,” he said.
Omar also welcomed the release of all Indian fishermen saying, “It’s a great gesture”.
Meanwhile, CPI (M) State Secretary M Y Tarigami, Agriculture Minister Gulam Hassan Mir and Democratic Freedom Party President Hakeem Yaseen have also welcomed the agreement. They said such steps would help normalizing relations between the two neighbours. However, they said such steps need to continue and more needs to be done. KNS

Lastupdate on : Sat, 8 Sep 2012 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Sat, 8 Sep 2012 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Sun, 9 Sep 2012 00:00:00 IST