Dialogue with India on Kashmir is progressing: Kasuri

Pakistan Foreign Minister Khurshid Mehmood Kasuri has said that the dialogues with India at various levels over the Kashmir dispute are progressing.

Lahore, July 22 : Pakistan Foreign Minister Khurshid Mehmood Kasuri has said that the dialogues with India at various levels over the Kashmir dispute are progressing.

Speaking to reporters, Kasuri said that the issue could be resolved only if both countries exhibit strong will.

On being asked about reports that NATO forces could lodge pre-emptive strikes against al Qaeda and Taliban elements in country's tribal-dominated western border, Kasuri said that Islamabad has already registered strong protests over such indications, and added that if required only Pakistani armed forces would launch operation in the area. However, he added that the government is trying hard for the continuation of the peace deal with the tribal leaders and that it is adhered to in its true spirit.

Kasuri expressed 'grief' over the Lal Masjid incident, but said the armed operation became warranted due to the mosque's cleric defiance and continuation of kidnapping of people by his followers.

"The government waited for six months but the situation did not become normal," The Nation quoted, him as saying.

ANI