Festering disputes threat to regional stability: Ehsan
By Ali Imran

ISLAMABAD—Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Ehsan-ul-Haq said that Pakistan sees foreign military presence in the region, the unresolved issue of Iran’s nuclear programme, the Kashmir dispute and the Palestinian problem, the issues of terrorism and the energy security issues related to oil from the region are major concerns to regional stability.
He was addressing the 3rd Gulf Dialogue currently being held in Bahrain from 8-10 December under the aegis of the International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS), London. The Gulf Dialogue is a regular feature to discuss regional security issues of the Gulf region and as a recognition of Pakistan’s importance and its role in the Gulf security.
General Ehsan-ul-Haq while dilating upon the future shape of regional security in the region said that the paradox in trying to bring stability in the region by the presence of foreign troops has brought an inverse effect to the already fragile security situation.
The effects of resentment over the unresolved Palestinian problem, compounded by the recent events in Gaza and Lebanon and the deteriorating situation in Iraq are all seen with concern not only in the region but in the entire Muslim world, he said.
He said Pakistan feels that while the international community should encourage regional security for better understanding, the Gulf countries hold the key to overall security environment in the region. “The continued involvement of the Organisation of Islamic Conference, where its 57 member states stand united; is imperative for any future resolution of issues and challenges faced by Muslim countries”, he said.
General Ehsan-ul-Haq said the Gulf States can begin by focusing on their common interests and their socio-economic development.
They must rise to face the growing threat of terrorism in region to evoke an environment to develop democratic and participatory institutions according to their national aspirations, the Chairman JCSC said.
He concluded his address by exhorting the international organisations and major global players to intensify their efforts in resolving the major problems in the Middle East as they impact not only the region but is directly linked to overall global security and stability. major problems in the Middle East as they impact not only the region but is directly linked to overall global security and stability
On the sidelines of the conference, General Ehsan-ul-Haq is also scheduled to meet regional and international leaders attending the conference to discuss the issues of mutual concern.