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ISLAMABAD, Jan 5 (APP): Prime
Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani on Monday said Pakistan wants to maintain friendly
relations with all neighbouring countries, and stressed for dedicating year 2009
for resolving the core issues between Pakistan and India. Talking to media-persons after
signing the condolence book of UAE ruler of Al-Kuwain state Sheikh Rashid bin
Ahmad Al Muallah at the UAE embassy, the Prime Minister said Pakistan was
against tension with all countries including India.
Prime Minister Gilani said, “We
will not allow our soil to be used for terrorism and want to maintain cordial
ties with all states including India.”
He said in his today’s meeting
with US Assistant Secretary of State Richard Boucher, he urged the need for
resolving Kashmir issue, which was the core issue between Pakistan and India.
He said the regional tension
would bring no benefit to any state.
Regarding Indian Home
Minister’s statement to visit United States to provide them evidence of Mumbai
incident, the Prime Minister said any evidence should be first provided to
Pakistan.
Gilani said he demanded Richard
Boucher of Dr Aafia Siddiqui’s return to Pakistan on humanitarian grounds.
He said he conveyed Pakistan’s
concern over the Israeli oppression in Gaza, and demanded of United States to
play its role in defusing the tension in Middle East.
The Prime Minister said he
asked the US official to expedite the development work in Reconstruction
Opportunity Zones (ROZs) in tribal areas.
He urged Friends of Pakistan to
assist Pakistan to overcome financial crisis it was currently facing.
Gilani thanked United Arab
Emirates for supporting the Pakistan in difficult times.
He said the bridge being
constructed by UAE at the Nishtar Ghat would benefit Punjab and Balochistan, and
said with UAE’s support, the under-developed area of Rajanpur could be improved.
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