In November 2003, in response to Vajpayee's offer to resume the peace process, Pakistan declares a ceasefire in Kashmir, which is matched by India.
In January 2004, Musharraf and Vajpayee meet in Islamabad on the periphery of the SAARC summit, and agree to a composite dialogue, which would include the issue of Kashmir.
A month later, Pakistan's top scientist A Q Khan is indicted for nuclear proliferation, but is pardoned by Musharraf.
In May, Pakistan is readmitted to the Commonwealth.
South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation leaders at the closing ceremony of the 12th SAARC summit in Islamabad, January 6, 2004.
Photograph: AFP/Getty Images
On rediff: SAARC Summit 2004