LOC21:19
18:19 GMT
territory"
NEW DELHI, June 22 (KUNA) -- India has described as "regrettable" the
description of its northernmost state of Jammu and Kashmir as an 'occupied
territory' by the OIC (Organization of the Islamic Conference) Secretary
General Ekmeleddin Thsanoglu.
In a letter (sent from Jeddah) written to Kashmiri separatist leader
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Thsanoglu had described Kashmir as an occupied territory.
During the past six decades, Kashmir has been a cause of three wars between
India and Pakistan.
Thsanoglu's assertion assumes significance even as it came ahead of the
resumption of composite dialogue between the two sides later this week.
Thsanoglu's letter also carried an invitation to Mirwaiz to attend an OIC
meeting in Kazakhstan. Mirwaiz is the Chairman of All Parties Hurriyat
Conference (APHC), a separatist organization.
Addressing media persons in New Delhi, a spokesman of India's External
Affairs Ministry on Wednesday said "We have seen reports that the OIC has
again chosen to refer to Jammu and Kashmir incorrectly. This is most
regrettable".
He added "The state of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. We
totally reject any reference or description to the contrary".
The OIC is an international organisation with a permanent delegation to the
United Nations, with 57 member states. It attempts to be the collective voice
of the Muslim world (Ummah) and attempts to safeguard the interests and ensure
the progress and well-being of Muslims.
This reference of Kashmir as an 'occupied territory' comes just a day after
Mirwaiz demanded inclusion of genuine Kashmiri leadership in the dialogue
process between Pakistan and India for bringing about a permanent settlement
to the Kashmir dispute. (End)
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KUNA 222119 Jun 11NNNN