NC asks Centre to 'reciprocate' Musharraf's 'flexibility'

The National Conference on Wednesday said President Pervez Musharraf has opened new avenues for resolution of Kashmir issue and asked the Centre to "reciprocate the flexibility shown by the Pakistani leader."

"The Central government should respect the flexible approach of President Musharraf and take immediate steps to remove all impediments in early resolution of Kashmir issue," NC President Omar Abdullah said after inaugurating a public health centre at Ikhrajpora in Srinagar.

He said by showing appreciation for the stand of NC on Kashmir issue, the Pakistan President has not only opened new avenues for the resolution of the problem but also honoured the wishes and aspirations of the people of Kashmir.

The Lok Sabha MP said Kashmir problem and its resolution should not be treated as a "prestige issue" but as a reassurance to the people of the state.

"This was our main theme during the talks with External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee recently," he said.

Abdullah said there was an urgent need to take steps which would provide relief to the people, like opening of more trans-LoC routes, simplifying travel procedure and starting of trade between the two sides of the Line of Control.