ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reiterated its call for a thorough and independent investigation into use of chemical weapons by Indian forces in Occupied Kashmir.

The call was made by Foreign Office spokesperson Dr Muhammad Faisal at his weekly news briefing in Islamabad on Thursday.

The spokesperson said that the UN Commission of Inquiry may also look into the matter provided India is not permitting its visit.

Dr Muhammad Faisal said that the Indian forces are committing heinous crimes in Occupied Kashmir and the same was documented by the UN Human Rights Commission in its recent report.

He said that Pakistan has a principled stand on Kashmir dispute and there is no change in it. “We want its early resolution but the other side is not ready to do so,” he added.

Responding to a question, the spokesperson said that the US and allied forces should not withdraw from Afghanistan unless situation stabilises in the country.

“We are pleased that other important actors are also arriving at the same conclusion and exploring the possibilities of peace and reconciliation. He said Pakistan welcomes efforts for negotiated settlement and will extend all possible support in this regard,” he added.