Srinagar:UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has voiced concern over the situation in Jammu and Kashmir while encouraging “positive dialogue” to resolve the disagreements peacefully.

He also said the UN welcomes a greater role for India in addressing regional peace and security challenges.

On the development front, India already is, and can become an even greater regional development force, helping other countries of the region forge a better future,” Guterres told PTI in an email interview here ahead of his visit to India beginning Monday.

He said the UN welcomed a greater role for India in addressing regional peace and security challenges.

“I remain concerned by the situation in Jammu and Kashmir – I encourage positive dialogue for disagreements to be resolved peacefully,” he said.

The UN chief will be in India October 1 to 3 during when he will meet with President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj.

His visit coincides with the beginning of events to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi on October 2, 2019.

Guterres said he greatly appreciated India for its significant contributions to the UN. India ranks as the fourth largest troop contributing country, with a total of 6,719 uniformed personnel serving in ten UN peacekeeping missions.

“The dedication and sacrifice of India’s uniformed personnel are deeply valued and are a model for many others,” he said.(PTI)