Pakistan rakes up Kashmir at UN, Sharif praises China

United Nations, Oct 1: Pakistan on Wednesday raked up the Kashmir issue at the UN General Assembly, with its Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif proposing four “new peace initiatives” with India to resolve the issue and was effusive in praise for China’s “proactive role in promoting peace and prosperity in Afghanistan and the region”.

Sharif, in his address, appeared to target India obliquely at several places, including on India’s bid for a permanent seat in a reformed UN Security Council. He also praised China’s “One Belt One Road” initiative, and said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor will spur economic development in the region.

India has opposed the multi-billion economic corridor, being financed by China, since it crosses Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

Other Key Points raised by Sharif:

* Kashmiris are being oppressed and tortured.
* I welcome Palestine as a new member of the UN.
* Palestinians and Kashmiris have their regions occupied by foreign forces.
* UN has failed to resolve Kashmir issue. Kashmiris must be included in all talks.
* I propose new peace initiative with India. We want peace with India.
* India and Pakistan must withdraw forces from Siachen.
* Military presence on Indo-Pak border should be reduced. Demilitarisation of Kashmir is the need of the hour.
* Ceasefire violation must be stopped.
* UNSC Expansion is not required. Permanent Membership is not needed right now.
* Pakistan does not want any arms race in South Asia.