DG ISPR thanks Iranian supreme leader for supportive statement on Kashmir

TEHRAN (92 News) – DG ISPR Major General Asif Ghafoor has thanked the Iranian supreme leader for his supportive statement on Kashmir. Addressing joint press conference with Gen Staff Officer Iranian Army in Tehran on Tuesday, he said that Kashmir is a long pending dispute between India and Pakistan. “Regional peace and security remains at stake unless it’s resolved to the aspiration of Kashmiris in line with UN Resolution.” He also thanked the Iranian military and government for hospitality extended by Iran during the visit on behalf of the COAS. The DG ISPR said that COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa has brought the message of friendship and cooperation and termed the Pak-Iran border as border of peace and friendship. Gen Asif Ghafoor also briefed the Iranian media about Pakistan’s efforts, achievements and sacrifices in war against terror and towards regional peace. “Pakistan wishes peace in Afghanistan and supports all initiatives towards this end. We have done everything on Pakistan side of the border. There are no terrorist sanctuaries inside Pakistan.” He said that the ISIS is growing in Afghanistan as a threat to the region and a regional approach is required to defeat this threat. The DG ISPR said that Pakistan has taken effective measures on the Pak-Afghan border. “Terrorists are likely to exploit friendly Pak-Iran border. Enhanced Pak-Iran border security is in mutual interest.” He reiterated that Pakistan's soil will not be used against any country, including Iran. “Iran has given the same commitment.” He said that Pak and Iranian Army leadership has agreed to continue bilateral engagements for enhanced security cooperation. “Our relations with Iran are not at the cost of our relations with any other country and vice versa. We greatly value our relations with Iran which have a positive history bonded by history, culture and religion.” Gen Asim Ghafoor said that the Pakistan armed forces are capable to thwart any threat with support of Pakistani nation. “In Pakistan, we say that prerogative of declaring Jihad rests only with the state and armed forces are state instrument for its application against anti state elements,” he maintained. Speaking on the occasion, the Iranian spokesperson thanked the Pakistani delegation for visiting Iran. He acknowledged the successful visit and supportive of suggestions made by COAS Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa. He assured that Iranian soil shall not be used against Pakistan. At the end of conference, Gen Asif Ghafoor said: "The Pakistani delegation leaves Iran with positive feelings and strengthening relations."