QUETTA, Sept 14: The Kashmir issue needs to be resolved through dialogue between Pakistan and India. It is fair time that this matter is resolved in the best interest of the two neighbours, region and the global community.

This was stated by the Japanese consul general of Karachi, Mr Kanji Hanagata, while speaking at a function held here on Thursday in connection with the Pakistan-Japan Week 2002.

He admitted that the people of Japan and their government were very sentimental on the nuclear issue, and commented that perhaps we might not know what realistic approach should be adopted for the burning Kashmir issue.

Mr Hanagata said assistance from Japan to Pakistan, which had dropped after the nuclear explosions, was now gradually picking up and its position was much better.

He stated that we were awaiting formal request from the federal government for undertaking projects here in Pakistan.

The consul general informed the audience that the Pakistan-Japan Business Forum, which had been set up sometimes back, was holding regular meetings. The body was aware of vital economic matters of the two countries, he added.

In reply to a question, he said political instability was the main obstacle in Pakistan and other parts of the globe which was destroying tourism.

About the exports from Pakistan to Japan, he said the Japanese were quality-conscious people and only best quality products could make their way into his country.