EP Kashmir report more balanced

9.48.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 25th May 2007

Liberal Democrat MEP for London Baroness Sarah Ludford, vice-chair of the European Parliament's sub-committee on human rights today welcomed the European Parliament's support for a more balanced report on Kashmir than the draft originally put forward. Speaking after the vote in Strasbourg, she said:

"Amendments I co-signed on behalf of the Liberals and Democrats group sought to establish a balance and ensure the Kashmiri people are at the heart of this European Parliament resolution".

"I welcome the fact that the final resolution mentions the people of Kashmir's right to self determination, a right guaranteed by the UN and which the EU has a duty to respect and protect. At this crucial time, all options should be on the table for the parties to negotiate, with full involvement of the Kashmiri people."

"I regret the absence of the reference to a plebiscite with the three options available for the Kashmiri people - being part of Pakistan, India or independence - which amendments tabled by the Liberal and Democrat Group called for. Plebiscites are tried and tested tools for people to exercise their established right to self determination."

"The EU must support the positive ideas coming forward from India and Pakistan. We must insist that these concrete proposals are explored through full consultation with the Kashmiri people. This must be a democratic process and - when the conditions are right - we must support the Kashmiris' desire for a democratic plebiscite."