New Delhi: In an apparent reference to Indo-Pak tensions over Kashmir, Pakistan today (November 11) said a "right environment" to boost co-operation and development among South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation (SAARC) countries was possible only if determined efforts were made to "resolve disputes" and not allow them to simmer.

"Close co-operation and development can only develop in a regional grouping when there is complete political harmony among its members," Pakistan Foreign Minister Sheikh Rashid told the third SAARC Information Ministers' Conference in New Delhi.

Stressing the need for "creating the right environment, in which co-operation and development can flourish", he said "this would only be possible if determined efforts are made to resolve disputes and issues and not allow them to simmer".

PTI