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Is US using the Kashmir issue to try and get a permanent foothold in South Asia? Post your views

New Delhi: Jamiat-e-Ulema Islami chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who is heading a four-member team of Pakistani Parliamentarians, on July 17 said that Kashmir dispute should be resolved on the basis of the 1971 Shimla accord. No third party mediation should be encouraged.

The Maulana said, ''Some countries have vested interests in the region. So they are eager to mediate in the Kashmir issue. It is essential for both the countries to reject third party mediation."

He said only talks could end differences between the two countries that would lead to peace in the region. The Maulana is also looking forward to meet Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee and his deputy L K Advani to push the dialogue process.

India had earlier rejected Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf's suggestion for a US sponsored roadmap on the lines of West Asia to resolve the Kashmir imbroglio.

ANI