Srinagar, May 14, KNT: National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Thursday welcomed the ongoing BRICS-related diplomatic engagement in New Delhi and expressed hope for peace in the Middle East and improved global cooperation amid rising international tensions.
Talking to reporters, Abdullah said he hoped efforts by world powers would help restore peace in conflict-hit regions and reduce instability across the globe.
“I hope there will be peace around the globe,” Abdullah said while referring to the current international situation and ongoing diplomatic engagements.
He also referred to the visit of the United States President to China and expressed hope that Beijing would contribute positively toward easing tensions in the Middle East.
“The US President is in China and I hope China will play its part,” he said.
The former Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister reiterated his support for dialogue with Pakistan, saying discussions were preferable to military confrontation.
Abdullah also welcomed reported willingness from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to engage in dialogue with Pakistan, describing talks as a better option than war.
Welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for austerity measures, Abdullah said the call reflected economic and fuel-related challenges facing the country.
“The Prime Minister’s appeal to adopt austerity measures shows that we are short of fuel and we should also play our part,” he said.
He also described the downsizing of the capital setup as a necessary step under the prevailing circumstances. [KNT]
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