Kashmir should be resolved in accordance with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people:Pak

Pakistan Thursday once again categorically stated that no transit trade rights have been granted to India. Foreign Office Spokesman Abdul Basit told a weekly briefing that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Pakistan and Afghanistan in Washington recently envisages conclusion of a transit trade agreement by the end of the year between the two countries.
“Pakistan will not agree to any provision or arrangement that is not in its national interests.” He said adding: “Pakistan is cognizant of its interests and knows how to protect them.”
Replying to a question about Indian refusal to give visa to Pakistani journalists interested to cover Indian elections, the spokesman said, “Pakistan believes that such interaction between the two people and especially media is important towards enhancing understanding.”
The spokesman said Pakistan has a clear stand on Jammu and Kashmir that the dispute should be resolved in accordance with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
The spokesman said Pakistan attaches immense importance to its brotherly relations with Bangladesh and wanted to move ahead for the sake of mutual benefit.
He further said a former president during his visit to Bangladesh in 2002 also regretted with the people and government of Bangladesh.
Answering a question the spokesman said during Pakistan‑China strategic dialogue in Beijing on Wednesday, China reiterated its strong support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.
He said China assured its full support to Pakistan in addressing the challenges that the country is currently facing, especially the humanitarian crisis of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).
The spokesman said Pakistan has always underlined the imperative of having holistic and regional approach to address the challenges facing the region.
He said, “There is now strong realization in Washington and other capitals of the world that we need to adopt regional and holistic approach for the purpose.”
Commenting on reports that Pakistan was seeking drone technology from the United States, he said the matter is still under consideration.(APP)