Pakistan’s parliament passed a resolution on internal security and the war against terrorism.  Says The News (October 23) “The Parliament on Wednesday unanimously endorsed a 14-point resolution on national policy regarding internal security and war against terrorism... the resolution asks government to hold dialogue only with militants who lay down arms and compensate all soldiers and civilians who embraced martyrdom in fight against terror. It also asks government to defend the territorial integrity of the country.” The Nation mentions two important points: “That Pakistan’s territory shall not be used for any kind of attacks on other countries and all foreign fighters, if found, shall be expelled from our soil. That dialogue must now be the highest priority, as a principal instrument of conflict management and resolution. Dialogue will be encouraged with all those elements willing to abide by the Constitution of Pakistan and rule of law”.

Unlocking the LoC

Opening up of trade between the two Kashmirs has been covered well by all papers. Dawn (October 21) reports that “ The opening of the trade route has been a key demand of Kashmiri separatists. Separatists, however, say India still needs to acknowledge that Kashmir is disputed.” The News (October 23) says “ AJK President Raja Zulqarnain Khan flagged off three trucks carrying goods, including one with gift items onboard for occupied Poonch... The president said the trans-LoC trade will open new avenues for resolution of decades old Kashmir conflict. He further said the decision for launching bilateral trade between both sides of the LoC will also strengthen and promote the ongoing peace process ”.

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