FM Qureshi discusses Kashmir, Afghan peace with UNGA president-elect

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has sought an effective role of the United Nations to end human rights violations in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir to resolve the dispute under the Security Council resolutions.

Speaking to UN General Assembly President-elect Volkan Bozkir, the foreign minister said Pakistan has apprised all international forums, including United Nations, about the Indian atrocities and nefarious designs in the restive region.

He said India took unilateral steps to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir on 5th August last year in clear violation of the UN resolutions and international laws. He said the extra-judicial killing of Kashmiris, firing at innocent civilians, and violence has become a matter of routine in held Kashmir.

The foreign minister said Kashmir issue is an international dispute as per the UN resolutions which has been endorsed by the United Nations.

Referring to the efforts against COVID-19 pandemic, Qureshi said comprehensive joint efforts have to be made at international level to fight the pandemic. He said several countries are engaged to develop a vaccine for coronavirus and hoped that it will be available for developing countries.

The two leaders also exchanged views about efforts for peace and stability in the region including the Afghan peace process. Qureshi said Pakistan has been playing a reconciliatory role for peace in Afghanistan. He stressed that intra-Afghan dialogue is imperative for durable peace and stability in the region.

Earlier, President-elect of the UNGA Volkan Bozkir arrived in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs where he was received by the foreign minister. He also planted a sapling at the lawn of the ministry under the national plantation drive.

Volkan Bozkir will also call on Prime Minister Imran Khan and discuss issues pertaining to 75th session of the UN General Assembly.