ISLAMABAD, Nov 25: Kashmiri leaders must also be included in the talks process, says Maulana Abbas Ansari, head of the APHC (Ansari group).

Talking to Radio Tehran he said that talks regarding any solution of the Kashmir issue would not be successful without the participation of the Kashmiri people.

He said that President Musharraf was also of the view that any talks on the issue would not be meaningful till the participation of the Kashmiri leadership in the talks.

He said: "I hope talks will move forward as both the countries are desirous of narrowing the gap between them." Maulana Abbas Ansari said that Pakistan wanted resolution of the Kashmir issue in accordance with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people and President Musharraf had given suggestions for discussion.

He said: "We hope a solution to the issue will evolve, which will be acceptable to Kashmiri people as well as Pakistan and India." About Indian Prime Minister's recent statements, he said: "I think these statements will not affect the dialogue process." -APP