Gilani wants early resumption of dialogue with India

Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said on Friday that Pakistan wants early resumption of the Composite Dialogue process with India.

Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said on Friday that Pakistan wants early resumption of the Composite Dialogue process with India for the resolution of all core issues,including Kashmir and differences over sharing of river waters.

Gilani made the remarks as he wound up a visit to Muzaffarabad,the capital of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Talking to reporters,he reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to good relations with all its neighbours,including India and Afghanistan.

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Replying to a question,he said the Kerry-Lugar bill is not a bilateral agreement with the US and it is thus not binding on Pakistan to accept it.

The US aid bill is being discussed in parliament and all public representatives will be given time to air their views on it,he said.

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi,who has returned from a visit to the US,will brief parliament on the bill.

A meeting of the President,Prime Minister and army chief will also be held soon to discuss the Kerry-Lugar bill,Gilani said.

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Though the armed forces have achieved successes in the operation against militants in Malakand division thanks to an effective strategy evolved by the government,investment will not pour into Pakistan till the law and order situation improves,he said.