ISLAMABAD (AFP) - A key pro-Pakistan Kashmiri political leader Monday backed India's ceasefire offer in Kashmir and urged fellow politicians not to reject the "bold and courageous" peace initiative.
"We should not miss the opportunity. We should make it a meaningful exercise in search of a negotiated settlement to the Kashmir issue," said Sardar Abdul Qayyum, former president of the Pakistan-administered zone of the divided Himalayan state.
"The ceasefire is an encouraging step and we should give it a serious consideration and act with responsibility," Qayyum told reporters.
Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee last week instructed his forces to stop combat operations against Kashmiri outfits in the Indian zone of Kashmir during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
Kashmiri opposition groups, waging a campaign against Indian rule, have rejected the ceasefire, vowing to step up attacks.
Vajpayee's move was a "positive initiative towards resolving the Kashmir issue," Qayyum said.
"We should tell the world that we are not mischief mongers," the 74-year old veteran politician said.
Pakistan will have to be included in the talks process ultimately, he said.
"Pakistan is a principal party to the Kashmir dispute which cannot be settled without its participation in talks."
India and Pakistan, both claiming ownership of the Himalayan state, have fought two wars over Kashmir, which has now become a nuclear flashpoint in South Asia.
More than 34,000 people have died in the 11-year old war.
A peace process in Kashmir would help reduce dangerous tensions between Pakistan and India, Qayyum said.
"International powers also want to see peace in the region. They will get a chance to play a role once the process gets underway."
He stressed that a solution to the festering dispute should be found on the basis of the longstanding U.N. resolutions calling for a referendum in Kashmir. "This is our stand which is recognized internationally."
