November 05, 2008	Wednesday	Ziqa'ad 6, 1429

UNITED NATIONS, Nov 4: Saying that Pakistani and Indian leaders have had a “breakthrough” in their relationship, UN Secretary General Ban ki moon asked Pakistani and Indian leaders on Monday to continue their “composite dialogue” in order to resolve all issues, including Kashmir.

Talking to reporters after his return from a South Asian trip, Mr Ban said the recent summit meeting between President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in New York in September had provided a very good opportunity for a breakthrough in their current relationship.

He said: “I have discussed this matter with Indian leaders, and I have urged the Indian leaders to continue their composite dialogue with Pakistan.”

Observing that trade had been opened and exchanges were continuing between the two countries, he said: “I am sure that they will be able to resolve the Kashmir issue through dialogue in a peaceful manner.”

Mr Ban was asked if he was willing to offer the good offices of the United Nations towards that end, because without resolution of that issue the two countries would not be able to move forward on this matter.

He said: “If and when both parties to this issue ask me to provide good offices, I am willing to do that.

“But as you know, good offices are available whenever there is some agreed request from both parties.”—Correspondent