Srinagar, Apr 8 : Farooq Abdullah on Wednesday welcomed the reported ceasefire between Iran and the United States, saying dialogue was the only way to resolve conflicts and that “war is not the solution to anything.”
Thanking God for “giving both countries the courage to sit at the table,” Abdullah said peace talks were essential as “without conversation, there is no way forward.”
He congratulated the countries involved in the ceasefire effort and expressed hope that the talks would lead to lasting peace, noting that prolonged conflict would deepen global challenges.
“The whole world has been affected by this war. If it continues, the problems will increase to an extent that only God knows what will happen,” he said, pointing to the central role of energy resources in the region.
The National Conference chief said the conflict had also affected people in Jammu and Kashmir, many of whom work in Gulf countries and support their families through remittances.
“Many families from our region depend on those working abroad. We are concerned that this war should end,” he said.
Abdullah said rising tensions could have far-reaching economic consequences, including a spike in oil prices and disruption in essential supplies.
“If the war continues, oil prices will rise sharply, gas supplies could be affected, and even the prices of medicines will increase. The poor will suffer the most,” he added.
On the question of who should get credit for the ceasefire, Abdullah said it was “a blessing from God” and refrained from attributing it to any particular country.
“Humanity has to win. It is not easy to end any civilisation, no matter how much one tries,” he said.
Commenting on global geopolitics, he said the world was no longer unipolar and that countries like China and Russia had emerged as major powers alongside the US.
Abdullah also said India should continue to maintain friendly relations with all countries if it wanted to progress.
“If India wants to move forward, it has to extend the hand of friendship with every country. We move forward with friendship, not enmity,” he said.
He also urged Pakistan to “leave the path of terrorism” and adopt peace and brotherhood.
On the Middle East situation, Abdullah said continued hostilities, including in Lebanon, would only lead to further destruction and no lasting benefit.
“Which war has benefited the world? Only destruction has benefited,” he said.
He expressed hope that ongoing negotiations would succeed and prevent further escalation, adding that a stable outcome would be crucial for global and regional stability.(KNS)
