Resolution of Kashmir issue vital for peace, says Pakistan Army chief Raheel Sharif

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan's powerful Army chief General Raheel Sharif today said that the resolution of Kashmir issue was imperative for establishment of sustainable peace in the region.

Addressing a passing-out parade at Military Academy in Kakul, Gen Sharif said that the people of Kashmir should be allowed to decide their fate in the light of UN resolutions.

He said Pakistan desires regional stability and relationship based on equality and mutual respect.

"We persistently seek peace in the region and beyond. This quest for peace is our nation's greatest strength. We desire regional stability and relationship based on equality and mutual respect," he said.

The army chief said Pakistan's armed forces were fully capable of meeting any external threat. He said that any aggression against Pakistan will get a "befitting response."

Gen Sharif said the military operation in North Waziristan was successfully going on and it would continue till militancy is completely smashed.

He said the objective of the armed forces is to establish peace in the country and they have already destroyed the organised network of terrorists which was based in North Waziristan.