Mehbooba for Indo-Pak talks, says Muslim nations 'worst victims of terrorism'

Pitching strongly for peace between India and Pakistan, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Friday urged both countries to join hands against terrorism while asserting that funds spent on animosity can instead be diverted towards 'good purpose'.

Dubbing terrorism as the biggest threat faced by nations across the globe, Mehbooba told reporters that Muslim nations are the worst victims of terrorism.

"Nations across the world are coming closer, terrorism has emerged as the biggest challenge for all countries. Muslim nations are the worst victims of terrorism," she said.

"Both India and Pakistan need to address the problem of terrorism and alienation of youth. If we keep fighting then this would pose a threat to our existence. The money being spent on animosity can be instead diverted towards good purpose," she added.

She lauded the efforts being made by India and Pakistan to engage in dialogue despite terrorist attack on the Air Force base in Pathankot.

"The talks have begun. The Prime Minister had gone to Lahore where an informal meeting was held. After that, unfortunately the Pathankot incident took place, but despite that talks went on. Even recently, the talks were held," she added.

Mehbooba had last week laid a firm emphasis on improving tourism in the border areas of Jammu and Kashmir and said that if the US could mend ties with Iran then why India can't take a similar step.

During her visit to villages near Suchetgarh border to promote tourism, she had said that violence at the border and incidents of bullets being fired immediately makes headlines, but the news of border folks sharing land and water seldom grabs attention.