06 November 2004	Saturday	22 Ramazan 1425

UNITED NATIONS, Nov 5: Pakistan on Thursday called on the international community to monitor the peace process between India and Pakistan in the backdrop of UN Security Council resolutions as the two nations explore "practical possibilities and modalities" for a final settlement of the Kashmir dispute.

Addressing the UN General Assembly's social committee on the question of "Universal Realization of the Right of Peoples to Self-determination," Pakistan's delegate and MNA Malik Mohammad Saifullah Tiwana warned that the continued violation of Kashmiri people's rights was incompatible with objectives of ending violence and terrorism in the region.

"The UN has a special responsibility emanating from the resolutions of the Security Council, to support the endeavours for a just and peaceful solution of the Jammu & Kashmir dispute, in accordance with the wishes of the Kashmiri people," he added.

"We desire a solution of the Kashmir dispute which is just, honourable and acceptable to India, Pakistan and the Kashmiri people," said Mr Tiwana. "A just and fair solution will open new avenues for progress and development of South Asia."

He pointed out that the tragic history of the Kashmiri people had ensued - over the last 15 years, more than 80,000 Kashmiris had been killed, and massive violations of human rights had occurred.

Speaking about possibilities and modalities, Mr Tiwana observed "in order to begin consideration of possible options, the Pakistan President had recently told the Pakistan media to initiate a debate on possible solutions to the Kashmir dispute."

He also held that the two countries -- India and Pakistan -- must address the issue head-on and with sincerity, or it would contribute to the long-term deterioration of the situation of peace and stability in South Asia.