Srinagar, July 28: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today said Pakistan will have to talk to mainstream politicians also if the leadership of Jammu and Kashmir is to be included in dialogue between New Delhi and Islamabad for resolution of Kashmir issue.
“If they want inclusion of Kashmiri leadership in the dialogue, then Pakistan will have to talk to the mainstream leadership also,” Omar told reporters on the sidelines of a function here.
He said separatists were not the only leaders in Jammu and Kashmir as the mainstream political parties have proved their representative character from time to time. Omar said there was nothing to worry about the meeting between visiting Pakistan Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar and separatist leaders in New Delhi on Tuesday.
“There is nothing new in Hurriyat Conference leaders meeting Pakistani dignitaries. This is not happening for the first time and there is nothing to worry about,” he said.
Responding to questions, the Chief Minister said he was satisfied that foreign ministers of India and Pakistan discussed confidence building measures in respect of Jammu and Kashmir and also resolved to strengthen these.
“It is a welcome step that the cross-Line of Control bus services in Jammu and Kashmir will be now open for pilgrims and tourists from the state,” he said. While welcoming the increase in number of trading days on cross-LoC routes, Omar said more needs to be done for making the trade sustainable.
“Proper banking arrangements are needed to strengthen the trade. It has not happened yet but hopefully it will be taken up during the next meeting,” he added. PTI
