The Hindu : International / India & World : Pakistan welcomes Manmohan statement

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Thursday, Dec 23, 2004

International

International - India & World

Pakistan welcomes Manmohan statement

By B. Muralidhar Reddy

ISLAMABAD, DEC. 22. Pakistan has welcomed the statement by the Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, that India desired resolution of all outstanding issues with Pakistan through dialogue.

The Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman, Masood Khan, told the local media: "We understand that the Indian Prime Minister's statement is welcoming, but now expectations are that India and Pakistan resolve their issues."

Mr. Masood said continuation of the composite dialogue is itself a good process. Now, the composite dialogue process is entering into that stage where efforts should be enhanced to achieve results, he said.

He said the confidence building measures (CBMs) and the dialogue process would have to move forward side by side and both the countries must show flexibility, courage and sincerity to resolve their complicated issues.

Mr. Khan said the next round of talks between the two countries would start with the upcoming meeting at the level of Foreign Secretaries. The meeting would review the entire dialogue process held between India and Pakistan up to now.

The Kashmir issue, peace and security would be discussed during the meeting.

Printer friendly page
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

International

News Update

Stories in this Section

U.S. toll 18; curfew clamped in Mosul

Jewish settlers adopt badge of Holocaust

Riyadh recalls envoy in protest against `Tripoli plot'

Blair for new peace move in West Asia

New fish, insect species found

Iran detains `10 nuclear spies'

Benazir alleges `double standards'

Blunkett's career in doubt

Toxic gas in mine kills 13

E.U. strikes deal on fishing

Pakistan welcomes Manmohan statement