Let us move forward: Vajpayee

By B. Muralidhar Reddy

ISLAMABAD, JULY 12. The Prime Minister, Mr. A.B. Vajpayee, has said that India was prepared to explore jointly with Pakistan ``constructive ways'' to take forward the relationship between the two nations.

In an interview to the Associated Press of Pakistan, Mr. Vajpayee said time has come for New Delhi and Islamabad to shed ``narrow and cliche-ridden'' approaches and seek ways to take their relationship forward and address the core concerns of the people of the two countries.

Asked whether there was any pressure behind the decision to invite the Pakistan President, Gen. Pervez Musharraf, he said the invitation was extended in pursuit of the goal of peace.

On the U.N. resolutions, he said ``India and Pakistan have bilateral commitment which go well beyond the U.N. Charter in enjoining them to resolve differences through peaceful dialogue''.

Asked about the ``involvement'' of the Hurriyat Conference leaders in talks over the Kashmir issue, he said ``we have always indicated our willingness to hold dialogue with all groups and individuals in Jammu and Kashmir that abjure violence and are committed to peace. The APHC is not an exception''.

To a question about alleged human rights violations in Kashmir even during cease-fire from last November to May this year, Mr. Vajpayee said India was punishing those indulging in human rights violations.

On nuclear and missile build-up by India, he said India is ``sensitive'' to the need for maintaining an appropriate defence preparedness. ``This is in response to the developments in our security environment.''

The Prime Minister, however, said that India's security policy had remained defensive in character and content.Asked whether situations such as Kargil and Siachen arose because India had been reluctant to talk to Pakistan on Kashmir problem, he said ``we have not avoided discussion on any issue.''

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