The entire political spectrum in Jammu and Kashmir [Images] has welcomed the installation of an elected prime minister in Pakistan.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam [Images] Nabi Azad, while welcoming the 'return of democracy in Pakistan', hoped that it would usher in an atmosphere of peace and amity in the region.

The chief minister described Yousuf Raza Gillani's taking oath as head of the new government in Pakistan following general elections as a 'positive development for the growth of democracy there'.

In a statement, he said, this would also end the 'uncertainty prevailing in Pakistan for the last one year, which had also slowed down the dialogue process with India'.

"With an elected government in place in Pakistan, I am hopeful that it will work towards consolidation of the peace process initiated by the two countries four years ago," Azad said, adding that an atmosphere of peace and amity was in the best interests of the people of the region and the world at large.

He expressed optimism that the new government would build on the positive change in the thinking of the leadership of Pakistan and let the "ongoing phase of reconciliation and harmony in the sub-continent develop further".

"I hope Gilani will reinforce India's efforts for promoting peace, friendship and trust in the region," the chief minister said.

The UPA government, he recalled, was deeply committed to warm and cordial relationship with Pakistan and its initiatives during the past four years had facilitated closer people-to-people ties and improvement in bilateral relations.

Azad said he was looking forward to early resumption of the dialogue process between India and Pakistan.

Welcoming the formation of a new government in Pakistan, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and ruling People's Democratic Party patron, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed said, "The stabilization of the democratic and political institutions in Pakistan has rejuvenated the hope for a peaceful settlement of the Kashmir issue."

"With the political situation evolving positively in Pakistan, I see hope in the air and promise in the environment for the people of Jammu and Kashmir," he said.

Mufti expressed hope that the new government would 'ardently pursue the peace process with India to permanently end the six decades of hostilities, violence and economic deprivation in the region.'

The moderate group of the separatist, All Parties Hurriyat Conference led by Mirwaiz Moulvi Umar Farooq has congratulated the new Pakistan prime minister, on assuming the charge.

In a statement the conglomerate 'prayed for the growth and stability of democratic institutions in Pakistan'.

The moderate APHC said, "Democracy was a critical factor in the stability of Pakistan and resolution of Kashmir issue. It is also pivotal for peace and prosperity in the entire region."