ISLAMABAD, Sept 5: Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz on Sunday expressed confidence that sacrifices rendered by Kashmiris in their struggle for self-determination would bear fruit soon and a just and lasting solution of the issue would be found.

Talking to Azad Jammu and Kashmir Prime Minister Sardar Sikandar Hayat Khan, who called on him at the PM's House, Mr Aziz said the government was committed to continuing political, diplomatic and moral support to Kashmiris' struggle.

"Our position is that the Kashmir dispute is the core issue in the ongoing dialogue between Pakistan and India. Until a respectable solution of the Kashmir issue in accordance with aspirations and wishes of Kashmiri people and the UN resolutions is achieved, both countries cannot achieve objectives of real prosperity and progress," Mr Aziz said.

He appreciated the steps taken by the AJK prime minister to ensure good governance, a policy of merit and financial discipline in Azad Kashmir. He expressed satisfaction over judicious use of development funds in Azad Kashmir.

Prime Minister Aziz promised more financial assistance for promotion of hydel generation and tourism in Azad Kashmir and said his government would continue cooperation with the AJK government in its plans for progress and prosperity.

He said he would undertake a visit of Azad Kashmir at an appropriate time. It may be recalled that in his capacity as the AJK council chairman, Mr Aziz has already convened a meeting of the council on Sept 18.

The AJK premier apprised Mr Aziz about his government's performance over the past three years and discussed with him the ongoing Kashmir liberation movement and the Pakistan-India dialogue.