Srinagar, Dec 19: Most separatist outfits of Jammu and Kashmir, including both factions of Hurriyat Conference, today welcomed Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf's preparedness to find a solution to Kashmir issue outside the UN resolutions and asked India to respond positively to the 'golden opportunity' in the 'flexibility' shown by Islamabad. "We welcome the statement of Musharraf as it shows Islamabad's flexibility in resolving Kashmir issue. His statement is a vindication of our stand that talks have to be between India, Pakistan and people of Jammu and Kashmir who form the principle party to the dispute," Hurriyat chairman Maulana Mohammad Abbas Ansari told.

However, he added that India or Pakistan could not withdraw from the UN resolutions passed by the Security Council as they were 'in favour of people of Jammu and Kashmir'.

"The UN resolutions provide the right to plebiscite to people of Jammu and Kashmir and only they can decide whether to withdraw or not," Ansari said.

Reacting cautiously, chairman of the rebel faction of Hurriyat Syed Ali Shah Geelani said "Pakistan has not stepped down from its stand on Kashmir issue but shown flexibility in an effort to find a permanent and durable solution to Kashmir issue."

"Now, it depends on government of India whether it is sincere in finding a solution ... If it is, it will respond positively," he added. Bureau Report