By IANS
Islamabad : Following are the highlights of Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani’s speech after getting an unopposed vote of confidence from the National Assembly, the lower house of parliament.
* On Kashmir: “I want to assure my sisters and brothers in Kashmir that their sacrifices will not be ignored and Pakistan will make every effort to resolve the issue in accordance with their wishes.
“I believe that confidence building measures is excellent step but it should be in the right direction.
“We want friendly and peaceful relations with all our neighbours and the international community and want to resolve all issues with all countries,” he said without naming any country.
* On Pakistan army: “Ruling is the right of people which they give to their elected representatives … I urge upon the armed forces to call back all army officers from civilian organisations within two weeks.”
* On dealing with militants: “I request and invite all those who have any sort of differences with the government to come to the negotiation table and let’s resolve all the issues through dialogue.”
“I assure you that peace is the only solution to all problems and a ladder to development.”