US Congressman Joseph Pitts has said the United States wants an early and peaceful settlement of longstanding Kashmir issue as it is imperative for lasting peace in South Asia.
The US Congressman expressed these views in his meeting with Leader of Opposition in AJK Assembly and former prime minister Azad Kashmir Barrister Sultan Mehmood in Washington on Friday.
Both the leaders discussed the latest situation in occupied Kashmir, ongoing efforts for settlement of the Kashmir issue and plight of Kashmiri refugees living in Azad Kashmir, said a message received here from Washington.
Joseph Pitts said alongside the ongoing efforts for resolution of the core issue of Kashmir, people and organisations should extend financial assistance to the Kashmiri refugees in Azad Kashmir.
"In this regard, the United Nations Commission for Refugees should also play its positive role," he added.
The US Congressman said: "Efforts are being carried out to provide financial assistance to Kashmiri refugees aimed at decreasing their problems."
He informed Barrister Sultan Mehmood that various organisations are being approached to ensure financial co-operation for refugees in Azad Kashmir.
Joseph Pitts said: "The Congressional hearing on Kashmir, organised by the US Congress' sub-committee for Human Rights, is a positive step, which would help resolve the longstanding issue."
Sultan Mehmood informed the US Congressman that Kashmir issue has entered into a decisive phase adding, "it is necessary to include Kashmiris as third party in the talks process between Pakistan and India."
"A durable and lasting settlement of the issue is not possible by keeping the Kashmiris away from dialogue process," he added.
He asked the United Nations to take necessary step to ensure implementation of its resolution on Kashmir.
Sultan Mahmood also called upon the US Congressman to help stop ongoing gross human rights violations being committed by Indian troops in occupied Kashmir.
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