Peace in S Asia not possible without Kashmir solution

"Establishment of peace in the region is not possible nor can the confidence-building measures proceed unless the Kashmir issue is resolved in accordance with the wishes and aspirations of the Kashmiris," he said in a message as Pakistan observed a day of "solidarity" with the people of Kashmir.

The message was read out by Sardar Siab Khalid, speaker of the legislature of the Pakistani-administered zone of Kashmir, as bad weather prevented Musharraf from flying to the state capital, Muzaffarabad.

Musharraf, who has initiated a peace process with India to resolve all issues through dialogue, said Kashmiris would have to be included in the dialogue process.

Rallies were held here and elsewhere in Pakistan expressing solidarity with the people of Kashmir fighting Indian rule in the Himalayan state.

"It is the basic right of the Kashmiris to decide their future on their own. I want to make it clear that Kashmir cause is our vital national interest and we cannot think of compromising it," Musharraf said.

Islamic rebels in Indian-held Kashmir launched an insurgency in 1989 which has claimed tens of thousands of lives. Most of the rebels want to join mainly-Muslim Pakistan although some want independence.