M A I N   N E W S

Pakistan Assembly passes anti-India resolution
Charges India with ‘aggression’; Delhi says LoC violations will hit ties
Ashok Tuteja/TNS

New Delhi/Islamabad, Aug 13
The Pakistan National Assembly today passed a resolution charging Indian troops with “unprovoked aggression” along the Line of Control (LoC) in recent days. New Delhi, however, asserted that unprovoked ceasefire violations would impact bilateral ties.

The resolution comes after a television channel aired Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s message calling for a “new beginning” in ties with India.

The resolution, which threatens to further vitiate the atmosphere between the two neighbours, said: “This House forcefully reiterates that while Pakistan is committed to working for peace with its neighbours, it remains steadfast in its resolve to fully defend its sovereignty, territorial borders and national interests.”

The resolution, moved by Pakistan Science and Technology Minister Zahid Hamid, blamed Indian forces for “unprovoked aggression” across the LoC in recent days.

It also condemned “attacks” on the Pakistan High Commission, demonstrations outside the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) offices in New Delhi and efforts to prevent the Delhi-Lahore bus from proceeding to Pakistan.

The resolution urged India to respect the 2003 ceasefire agreement and reaffirmed support to the “struggle of Kashmiri people for the right of self-determination”.

It deplored the “unjustified public vilification of Pakistan in the Indian media”. The resolution also endorsed Sharif’s “forceful statement” for effective steps to ensure ceasefire along the LoC and improve the atmosphere by engaging constructively to build trust and confidence. Sharif had said: “Let us make a new beginning. Let us sit together to resolve all outstanding issues in a friendly manner and in a peaceful atmosphere.”

Shortly after the remarks, MEA spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin said: “India is committed to resolving all outstanding issues with Pakistan through bilateral dialogue in an environment free of violence and terror. However, upholding the sanctity of the LOC is vital. It is one of the most important CBMs (confidence building measures) between us.” He made it clear that India would not rest until Mumbai terror attack masterminded and LeT chief Hafiz Saeed was brought to justice. Akbaruddin asked Pakistan to ensure that its soil was not used for terrorism directed against India.