Kashmiris are freedom fighters, not separatists: FO

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ISLAMABAD: Pakistan's Foreign Office on Thursday strongly reacted to a statement issued by Indian Defence Minister Arun Jaitley and said Kashmiris were freedom fighters who were carrying out their movement from an occupied territory and not separatists.

Speaking to media representatives during the weekly briefing in Islamabad, FO spokeswoman Tasnim Aslam said Jaitley's statement was "unacceptable for Pakistan".

Jaitley had on Wednesday said that Pakistan must make a "conscious choice of peace" and decide whether it wanted to talk to the Indian government or the Hurriyat leaders.

The spokeswoman added that Pakistan was sincere when it came to a dialogue with India, saying dialogue with India is not a favor, but a necessity for peace and development in South Asia.

Responding to a question, she said Pakistan does not want to stop trade between India and Afghanistan through its territory.

Referring to the Indian leadership's statement in condemnation of the Wagah border post attack, Aslam said no condemnation or condolence message had been received through official channels.

She added that US Ambassador Richard Olson had been apprised of Pakistan's reservations against a report recently issued by the Pentagon.

Aslam said Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif would be leaving for Beijing tomorrow and will also particpate in the 22nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit.

He added that premier Sharif would hold talks with the Chinese leadership, including the country's premier and president.

During the prime minister's visit, a number of agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoU) will be signed between the two countries, most of them in the field of energy, Aslam added.

The spokeswoman dispelled the notion that the Sharif's visit to Beijing is substitute to President Xi Jinping's visit to Islamabad. She added that visit of Chinese president is very much on the cards.

She said the prime minister will participate in a dialogue regarding Strengthening Connectivity and Infrastructure Development. She said Pakistan shares the Chinese vision and welcomes the opportunity.

Tasnim Aslam said Nawaz Sharif will also participate in 22nd APEC Summit.

The spokeswoman said Afghan President Ashraf Ghani would visit Islamabad this month. However, dates could not yet be announced, she said.