Jammu, Jan 20: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and JKNC President Dr. Farooq Abdullah said the two-day block presidents’ conference is progressing well, with the voices and suggestions of all participants being heard and noted.
On proposals to separate Jammu from Kashmir, he stated that the party has not considered such a move. “Our aim is to reunite Ladakh with Jammu and Kashmir. The people of Ladakh also seek restoration of statehood, and one day it will come together with Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Responding to Mehbooba Mufti’s demand to create separate divisions for Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley, Dr. Abdullah accused opponents of attempting to divide the region, asserting that such efforts will not succeed. He cited similar past experiences in Himachal Pradesh, where local leaders reinforced cultural unity despite attempts at division.
Commenting on India’s invitation by former US President Donald Trump to participate in the Gaza peace plan, he said relations with Trump are longstanding and, despite past setbacks, the situation is expected to improve.
On Pakistan, Dr. Abdullah urged calm, noting, “We have endured bullets and do not seek unrest. As Vajpayee ji said, neighbors cannot be changed.”
