Islamabad, Feb. 26, IRNA — The Indian peace mission, currently visiting Pakistan, Wednesday called for joint efforts to crush the menace of terrorism that has destroyed the peace of the whole region.
Addressing a function at the South Asia Free Media Association (SAFMA) office in Islamabad, the members of the delegation also insisted for resumption of dialogue process between India and Pakistan for lasting peace in the region.
They pointed out that terrorism is the common challenge facing Pakistan, India and the entire region and only effective collective efforts will help restore peace and address the economic plight of the common man.
The thirteen members of the delegation include social and peace activists, academicians and film maker.
Kuldeep Nayar, a Veteran Journalist said that Indians want cordial and friendly relations with Pakistan as stability and integrity of India and Pakistan are interlinked.
Referring to the exchange of peace delegates, Kuldeep Nayer said these are aimed at improving the environment between India and Pakistan so that they could resume the dialogue process. He expressed the confidence that the process of composite dialogue will restart between the two countries after the general elections in India.
Seema Mustafa, another Indian Journalist called upon the media outlets, particularly the electronic media to play a responsible role and stand for peace, equality and social justice in the region. He said the media should play the role of watch dog to remind their governments that people of the two countries want peace and tranquility in the region.
In his welcome address, Secretary General SAFMA Mustansar Javed said the visits of peace delegates to each other’s countries have helped reduce the tense situation between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of Mumbai attacks.
He appreciated the Pakistani response and offer of investigation into Mumbai attacks and hoped this will help deepen the trust and level of confidence between the two nations. He also stressed the need for an institutional arrangement between the two countries and at the SAARC level to investigate and prosecute cross border criminals.