ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has stressed the importance of a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir issue in accordance with UN resolutions. He warned that the denial of peace in South Asia would be a matter of concern not only for India and Pakistan but for the entire world.
The interim prime minister expressed a desire to avoid war with India. He clarified that labeling Kashmir as a core issue does not mean a constant desire for conflict with India. He acknowledged that Islamabad’s historical relationship with New Delhi has not been friendly.
The relationship between the two nuclear-armed neighbors worsened when the Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, revoked Article 370 of the constitution on August 5, 2019. The article granted special status to Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
Prime Minister Kakar emphasized that the Indian leadership and consciousness should make the decision regarding the restoration of ties with India. Pakistan is willing to be seen as a responsible partner on the world stage.
‘Situation in Afghanistan turned worsen’
The caretaker prime minister noted that the world had hoped for an improvement in the situation in Afghanistan with the formation of the new government, but unfortunately, the situation deteriorated.
He pointed out that the presence of arms, ammunition, and other military equipment left behind by US forces upon their withdrawal from the war-torn country has posed significant challenges. He remarked, “The consequences of the abandoned US military equipment in Afghanistan have begun to affect us”. Furthermore, he stressed that the issue of abandoned US military equipment is a matter of concern for the entire region. He also expressed Pakistan’s desire to see a peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan but lamented the challenges posed by the situation.
Premier Kakar’s Clear Stance on Term Limit
Besides these, Premier Kakar also made it clear that he has no intention of extending his tenure beyond the timeframe prescribed by the Constitution.
He further stated that determining the date for general elections in the country falls within the authority of the ECP. The interim prime minister also emphasized his government’s commitment to adhering to any decision made by the Supreme Court concerning the forthcoming polls.
