International - India & World   

Antony's `remark' resented

Nirupama Subramanian

ISLAMABAD: A purported remark by Defence Minister A.K. Antony that India would give hot pursuit to terrorists across the border was the subject of a hot statement by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry spokesperson on Monday.

It is not clear where Mr. Antony made this remark or where it was reported, but asked by a journalist for comments at the weekly briefing, spokesperson Tasnim Aslam had a "fitting reply" ready.

"First of all we have to check the veracity of the statement. If indeed the statement is true, we are surprised that a statement of this nature, which can only be described as irresponsible, has been made."

The statement "militates" against the efforts by the two Governments to normalise relations, she said.

"There should be no doubt in anyone's mind that any attempt to indulge in hot pursuit will get a fitting reply. Any aggression on or across our border or across the Line of Control would be effectively countered. Everyone should know that we have the capability and determination to effectively deal with such threats and defend our borders," Ms. Aslam said.

"Positive mindset"

The statement came hours before an Indian delegation, led by External Affairs Ministry Additional Secretary K.C. Singh, was due to arrive here for the first meeting of the Indian-Pakistan joint anti-terror mechanism to be held on Tuesday and Wednesday.

"We are approaching [the meeting] with a positive mindset," said Ms. Aslam.

The spokesperson said she could not confirm the widely reported arrest of Mullah Obaidullah, a Taliban leader who was said to be hiding in a safe house in the Balochistan capital Quetta.

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

Stories in this Section

China lays stress on equitable growth
U.S., Sri Lanka sign logistics pact
LTTE warns of bloodbath
Hillary, Obama battle for black votes
Prince may face jury
India, Japan, U.S. to hold Pacific naval exercise
Uncertainty again for doctors
Antony's `remark' resented
Prisoners are ill-treated: Pakistan

Copyright © 2007, The Hindu. Republication or redissemination of the contents of this screen are expressly prohibited without the written consent of The Hindu