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Vajpayee's desire to discuss Kashmir may result in some progress: Sharief

Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's desire to discuss Kashmir on his coming visit to Pakistan might result in some progress over the issue, said Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharief.

Sharief made these observations yesterday at a cabinet meeting which discussed the prospects for Vajpayee's visit.

According to a media statement, Sharief said Pakistan wanted a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue in accordance with the aspirations of the Kashmiris.

"We have been stressing upon the world community and the United Nations to get the UN resolutions implemented in this regard," he said.

Sharief briefed the Cabinet about his meeting with a delegation of the All-Parties Hurriyat Conference and other Kashmiri leaders.

He said Pakistan would always consult the Kashmiri leaders and keep them informed about the talks since they are a party to the issue.

Sharief apprised the Cabinet of various proposals and suggestions made by the Kashmiri leaders.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's opposition alliance has accused Sharief of ignoring it in his quest for detente with India.

"We recognise the need for dialogue. It should take place. But the terms of the dialogue should be determined by national consensus," a spokesman of the Pakistan Awami Ittehad (Pakistan People's Alliance) said in Islamabad.

"Two weak governments, with eroding mandates and weakening support (at home), cannot resolve disputes outstanding for 50 years merely by the exchange of bus rides," he said.

UNI

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