Date:30/10/2003 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2003/10/30/stories/2003103009841100.htm

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We are still waiting for Pak. response: PM

Kohima Oct. 29. The Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, today said that India was still waiting for Pakistan's response to the recent peace proposals and would not mind if Islamabad took some more time.

Addressing a press conference before leaving for New Delhi after a visit to Nagaland, the Prime Minister said, ``India has made certain proposals. We are waiting for Pakistan's response. We don't mind if they take more time. India has always been taking peace initiatives. Let's see how Pakistan reacts.''

On China, he said things were moving in the right direction on the question of Sikkim. ``Talks were going on with China and both have appointed special representatives to carry on the talks further. The two representatives have already met and the next meeting is being planned. Dialogue is the only way to solve the boundary question.''

On the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the dumping of Chinese goods in Indian market, Mr. Vajpayee said under WTO, ``we may have to take some steps which may seem difficult but India would have to stand and show its competence.''

The dumping of Chinese goods may seem to have created problems but the Indian market was competent enough to ward off the challenge.

On the Naga peace process, he said all sections would have to be included in the process for finding a permanent solution to the problem.

``Talks are on,'' he said but refused to give a timeframe.

UNI