KARACHI, Jan 15: Speakers at a seminar on “Importance of Peace in the Prevailing Situation,” on Tuesday appealed to the people to forge unity in their ranks and work for peace in the region.

The seminar was jointly organised by the Institute of Ethics and Culture (IEC) and the Indus Peace and Spiritual Society (IPSS) at a local hotel.

The speakers condemned India’s aggressive designs against Pakistan and appreciated the stance taken by President General Pervez Musharraf to avert war in the region.

They said that for permanent peace in the South Asian region the Kashmir issue should be resolved by both India and Pakistan.

Describing Kashmir as the flashpoint of tension between India and Pakistan, they pointed out that Pakistan had never said that Kashmir was its part, but had only demanded plebiscite so that the Kashmiris could decide their future.

They said that US policy makers must study the reasons which led to the Sept 11 events. These reasons, they noted, were strong and deep-rooted.

They said the leading nations of the world must recognise the rights of smaller countries. They were of the view that Muslim countries should unite themselves on one platform and have a united stand on matters of mutual interest.

The speakers included President of IEC Dr Suleman Otho, Director of IEC Haleem Sharar, Dr Jabbar Kattak, Qavi Hashmi, Lubna Sharif, Waiz Khan and Dr Mansoor Nami.—APP