London: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stressed that ties with India cannot move forward without resolving the Kashmir issue.
Addressing the overseas Pakistanis in London, where he also spoke about Pakistan’s development, global crises, and the country’s recent achievements.
The premier said Pakistan and India are neighbours with no choice but to coexist, with India facing the decision to remain hostile or become good neighbours.
He said that “Any talks with India must be fair.”
The PM reminded the audience that Pakistan and India have fought four wars, costing billions of dollars.
“That money should have been spent on schools, hospitals, roads, and improving the lives of ordinary citizens,” he said, stressing that ties with India cannot move forward without resolving the Kashmir issue.
“Billions of dollars spent on wars between Pakistan and India should be spent on the development and prosperity of people,” he added.
The premier vowed that the blood of millions of Kashmiris would not go in vain.
Turning to international crises, he spoke about Gaza, where more than 64,000 Palestinians have died, saying that the region is linked forever, whether people like it or not.
He once again emphasised that Pakistan wanted talks with India, but only on equal terms. Fairness and respect, he said, must guide any dialogue.
Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar called the convention a success and said PM Shehbaz’s speech would be broadcast later.
Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis, Aun Chaudhry, said the turnout showed how much overseas Pakistanis love their country.
He added that Pakistan’s recent achievements have strengthened the country’s global standing, a source of pride for all citizens.
The PM also touched on Bunyan-um-Marsoos, the economy, and Pakistan’s diplomatic relations during his address, according to the minister.
