Islamabad: Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed has said Pakistan wants cordial relations with India, but no negotiations with New Delhi are possible by ignoring the Kashmir issue.
Addressing a news conference in Islamabad today (Sunday), he said revival of Article 370 and 35-A of the Indian constitution to restore special status of Jammu and Kashmir is prerequisite for the dialogue between Pakistan and India.
Regarding government’s efforts to promote tourism in Pakistan, the Interior Minister said online visa services have been started across Pakistan to welcome foreign tourists in the country. He said validity of passport has been increased to 10 years.
Answering a question, Sheikh Rashid Ahmed rejected any kind of differences among the PTI ranks. He expressed the belief that PTI candidate and Finance Minister Dr Abdul Hafeez Shaikh will win the Senate elections.While he also expressed hope that MQM-P will vote for Dr Hafeez Sheikh in the senate elections.
Replying to a question regarding modernizing Islamabad Police, he said Eagle Squad of the ICT police is being established in the federal capital to curb crimes in the city. He said the Eagle Squad will be provided with 100 motorcycles and modern cars to chase and apprehend anti-social elements.
To another question, the Minister said no hurdle will be created in the way of Pakistan Democratic Movement’s protest if there is no violation of law. He, however, appealed the PDM leadership to reschedule their protest after Pakistan Day parade taking place on 23rd of the next month.
