Islamabad: Contending that India and Pakistan should address "substantively" the Kashmir issue seizing the opportunity in the coming dialogue, President Pervez Musharraf today sought "reduction" in force in Jammu and Kashmir to facilitate the search for a "just and durable" solution.

"Pakistan and India stand at a crossroad in history. Hopes for finding a peaceful solution to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute have been raised by prospects of resumption of composite talks between Pakistan and India," said Musharraf in a message on the Kashmir Day being observed by Pakistan on Feb 5.

Correspondingly, he said, "It is imperative for Pakistan and India to seize this opportunity by addressing seriously and substantively the Kashmir issue to the entire satisfaction of the people of Kashmir."

He said Pakistan's support for the Kashmiri cause was based not only on the bonds of kinship, "but accords fully with our obligations and responsibility under international law, UN Charter, Principles and relevant Security Council resolutions".

"Pakistan favours a general cessation of brutality and violence in Kashmir. The cycle of violence and counter-violence must end. This would entail foolproof measures for protecting and promoting the Human Rights of the Kashmiris and enabling them to realise their legitimate aspirations," he said.