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J&K figures in Musharraf's talks

Tara Shankar Sahay in New Delhi

Jammu & Kashmir figured in the talks between the Indian leadership and President Pervez Musharraf of Pakistan, with New Delhi conveying its concern for peace and security in the state and the general emphasizing the need to find a solution to the pending problems between the countries.

Briefing reporters on Gen Musharraf's meetings with Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Home Minister Lal Kishenchand Advani and External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh, external affairs ministry spokeswoman Nirupama Rao said the tone of the meetings was positive, with a recognition on both sides of the need to go forward.

She said Jaswant Singh, who also holds charge of the defence ministry, told Musharraf that it was up to both sides to recognise the relevance of previous agreements and to not reject those experiences. "The caravan of peace and progress should be allowed to move forward without interruption," he remarked.

Musharraf echoed his sentiments and appreciated Prime Minister Vajpayee's initiative in inviting him to India, which he described as a bold step.

Advani told the general that India would like to move forward, but there was need for cooperation more than confrontation.

Significantly, he also referred to various criminals seeking refuge in Pakistan, including Dawood Ibrahim.

Rao said a decision had not yet been taken on holding a joint press conference in Agra after the summit. She also said the confidence-building measures announced recently by India did not figure in the discussions.

In his meeting with the general, Vice-President Krishna Kant emphasised that there could be no short cuts to improving ties between the neighbours. "We will have to keep walking and talking," he told Musharraf.

Indo-Pak Summit 2001: The Complete Coverage

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