Wednesday, November 23 2005 09:46 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Islamabad: Pakistan yesterday (Nov 22,2005) said its 'ideas' of demilitarization and self governance towards resolution of the Kashmir issue remain 'relevant' and it would be 'regrettable' if India chooses to be 'evasive' in responding to them.

"Ideas of demilitarization and self governance remain relevant towards the resolution of the Kashmir dispute as these have also been supported by Chairman of the Hurriyat Conference Mirwaiz Umer Farooq and other Kashmiri leaders," the Pakistan Foreign Office said in a statement.

"It would be regrettable if the Indian side chooses to be evasive in responding to these ideas which must be considered with an open mind in the interest of finding a solution of the Kashmir issue and durable peace in the region.

"The Kashmir issue needs to be addressed with sincerity, flexibility and courage by both sides. Pakistan is committed to promotion of a solution that meets the aspirations of the Kashmiri people," the statement said.

India's assertions that there was lack of autonomy in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) and no popular elections have been held in Gilgit and Baltistan as 'uncalled for', the statement added.