Srinagar, Jun 30 (KNS): Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Molvi Mohammad Umar Farooq on Tuesday made a renewed appeal for India-Pakistan dialogue, asserting that if the United States and Iran can resume talks after decades of hostilities, the two South Asian neighbours can do the same.
"If Iran and the United States can come to the negotiating table after escalation, then India and Pakistan can also sit together and talk to resolve issues," the Mirwaiz told reporters on the sidelines of an event at Residency Road.
The chief cleric, who also heads the Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), clarified the context of his remarks made last Friday at the Jama Masjid, saying he had drawn the parallel only to emphasise that dialogue — not war — settles disputes.
"I appealed to the leadership of India to embrace the path of dialogue, because wars do not resolve disputes. It is through dialogue that issues are addressed," he said.
Stressing the economic potential of the region, the Mirwaiz said the Indian subcontinent has abundant human resources and tremendous growth opportunities, which can be realised only if the leadership demonstrates political vision and improves mutual relations.
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"Friendship between India and Pakistan offers the best path toward resolving longstanding issues, including the Kashmir conflict," he said, adding that he hoped the leadership of India, Pakistan and Kashmir would support such peace efforts.
On internal community matters, the Mirwaiz underlined the need for unity among Muslims of Kashmir and called for resolving any intra-sect or inter-sect differences through "good faith" dialogue, keeping the larger interest of communal harmony in mind.
"All members of the MMU are one on the need for strengthening unity. If any misunderstanding develops, it should be resolved through talks," he said.
He emphasised that only through unity can the people safeguard their identity and interests. (KNS)