Islamabad, Sep 13 : Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has stressed that there is a need for both Islamabad and New Delhi to narrow their differences on Kashmir, and added that Kashmiris must be part of the dialogue process.

“We believe that Kashmiris should be an integral component of the ongoing peace process, as they are the primary stakeholders,” Gilani said.

Gilani said the peace process between Pakistan and India had raised the level of people’s expectations, and should become a symbol of peace, tranquility and fraternity in South Asia.

Gilani mentioned frequent meetings of Pakistani leadership with Kashmiri leaders, which reflected the government’s approach on Kashmiris’ involvement in the peace process.

“We are ready to start a journey of peace and accommodation in order to provide a better environment for our people to prosper. We hope the governments of Pakistan and India will live up to the expectations of their own people, as well as to the Kashmiris, so that the dream of lasting peace in South Asia can be materialised,” he said.

Gilani said that Pakistan would continue its moral, political and diplomatic support for the oppressed people of Kashmir and for their principled struggle. “All kinds of violence in Indian-held Kashmir must end,” the Daily Times quoted Gilani, as saying.

The Prime Minister said the recent unrest and violence in Kashmir was a matter of great concern for Pakistan.

“The Government of Pakistan has condemned the excessive use of force by the Indian security forces against the people of Kashmir,” he said.

Gilani assured the Kashmiris that Pakistan would always stand by them until they succeed in the struggle to achieve their right to self-determination. (ANI)