ISLAMABAD, May 24: Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz has said that the Iranian nuclear issue needs to be resolved through dialogue rather than use of force, cautioning that the mistake of launching a military offensive would destabilise the entire region.

Talking to Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki, who called on him on Wednesday, the prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s stance that resolution of conflicts should be explored through dialogue rather than war or use of force.

There was no room for use of force in the 21st century, he said, adding that Pakistan wanted the Iran nuclear issue resolved by pursuing the path of negotiations.

The Iranian minister briefed Mr Aziz on the current status of Iranian nuclear programme.

“We are making headway on the policy of boosting bilateral relations with Iran,” the prime minister asserted.

He said the government was keen to enhance gas import from Iran.

Prime Minister Aziz said Pakistan was looking forward to expanding its economic ties, particularly trade, with Iran and it would pursue the gas pipeline project with the neighbouring country in its national interest.

He said Pakistan was against nuclear proliferation but it recognised Iran’s right to use the technology for peaceful purposes under the International Atomic Energy Agency guidelines and safeguards.

He told the Iranian minister that the composite dialogue with India was moving forward.

The prime minister said Pakistan desired an early settlement of the Kashmir issue in keeping with the wishes of the Kashmiri people.

He said sustainable peace in South Asia could not be established without the resolution of the core dispute.