Pakistan, India Willing to Hold Dialogue to Ease Tensions

Home>>World

Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Wednesday, June 05, 2002

Pakistan, India Willing to Hold Dialogue to Ease Tensions

Both Pakistan and India stressed in Almaty Tuesday that they are willing to ease the current tensions in South Asia through dialogue.

DISCUSSION

CHINESE

SEND TO FRIEND

Both Pakistan and India stressed in Almaty Tuesday that they are willing to ease the current tensions inSouth Asia through dialogue.

Speaking at the first summit meeting of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA), Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf urged India to return to the path of dialogue and negotiations.

"We have stated repeatedly that instead of accusations, threatsand dangerous escalation, India should return to the path of dialogue and negotiations, which is the only sane option, especially in the dangerous environment of South Asia," Musharraf said.

The president reiterated that Pakistan does not want war, nor will it initiate a war. "But if war is imposed on us, we will defend ourselves with the utmost resolution and determination."

Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee said in his speech that his country is willing to discuss all issues with Pakistan. "As far as an India-Pakistan dialogue is concerned, ... we have repeatedly said that we are willing to discuss all issues with Pakistan."

"But for that, cross-border terrorism has to end," he added.

Both Pakistan and India are among the 16 member nations of the CICA. Leaders from other member countries urged the two sides to exercise restraint to avoid large-scale conflicts and escalation of tension.

Questions?Comments? Click here

Musharraf Suggests Russian Mediation

Pakistan Ready for Starting Meaningful Dialogue with India

International Community Continues Efforts to DefuseTension Between India, Pakistan

>> Full Coverage

Japanese, Chinese Economy Combined to Overtake US in 20 Years ( 91 Messages)

US Taiwan Acts Jeopardize Sino-US Ties: Analysis ( 64 Messages)

'Kunlun' Jet-engine to Power China's Airforce ( 14 Messages)

China Wins Contract to Build Another "Three Gorges" Dam in Africa ( 8 Messages)

China's Economy will be World's Second-largest by 2030: Report ( 12 Messages)

Asymmetric Trial of Strength: Commentary ( 4 Messages)