Thursday, December 1 2005 15:24 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Islamabad: Describing Kashmir problem as a 'very difficult issue,' a prominent US Congressman Dan Burton has said that the dialogue process between India and Pakistan was a 'giant step in the right direction' to resolve it.

"If they [leaders of India and Pakistan] are willing to sit and talk and bring in the people of Kashmir to the discussions, I think the problem can be resolved and United States wants to be a supporter of the process," Burton said after meeting Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz here yesterday (Nov 30,2005) night.

The Kashmir problem is 'complex' and the leaders of the two countries are trying to resolve a 'very difficult issue' that would require lot of consultations on either side,he said, adding the movement by the Governments of Pakistan and India towards peaceful solution to long-standing problems was 'a giant step in the right direction.'

Burton, who is the Vice-Chairman of the House International Relations Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific and Co-Chairman of the Congressional Pakistan Caucus, is leading a six-member congressional delegation.

He arrived here from New Delhi after meeting Indian leaders.

He said President Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz were working together with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to find a solution of the Kashmir issue.

The dialogue was a great step forward and the leaders can make a great difference in solving 'the problem that has gone too far."

"We want to show our support and urge they continue," Burton said.

About the opening of five points along the Line of Control, Burton said it was a good first step.

"We hope that is just the beginning and the relationship between Pakistan and India grows and there is a peaceful resolution of problems like Kashmir, " he said.

He said he and members of his delegation were here 'to show support and congratulate both Pakistan and India on what they are doing.'

In his talks with the US delegation, Aziz said Pakistan believes in finding a peaceful and negotiated settlement to all outstanding issues, including Kashmir in accordance with the wishes and aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

Such a solution, he said, would ensure strengthening of peace in the region and pointed out that the US Congress, which was in favor of promoting peace in South Asia, could play a useful role in helping to resolve the Kashmir issue.

Aziz said that Pakistan is an anchor of peace and stability in the region, and is committed to the promotion of peace at the regional and global levels, adding Islamabad is committed to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and this commitment flows out of its own national interests and principles.

Success in the war against terror, he said, require a holistic approach which not only helps combat terrorists but also removes the deprivation and injustice 'which breeds terrorism.'