Manmohan open
to new ideas on Kashmir
NEW DELHI—In an apparent reference to President Pervez Musharraf’s four
point proposal for resolution of Kashmir dispute, Indian Prime Minister
Manmohan Singh Wednesday said he welcomed “all new ideas with an open
mind” and that it was time both countries worked together for a new
future.
“In the last few days, many suggestions have come and I welcome all of
them with an open mind. We can create an atmosphere of peace and
tranquility through mutual consultations and co-exist peacefully”, he
told a public meeting at Amritsar, according to news reports.
Addressing the meeting after laying the foundation stone for five
projects ahead of the assembly elections in Punjab, he said, “Both the
countries (India and Pakistan) should forget the past and think of a new
future and work together for that”.
He said that he has a dream that the relations between the two countries
should improve to such an extent that there could be an agreement
possible on peace, friendship and security. “It is my firm belief that
such an agreement is possible by keeping aside small obstacles”, Singh
said, adding that for the development of border areas such a pact is
necessary.
Voicing concern that the border districts have lagged behind in terms of
infrastructure and development, Singh said the key to the turnaround in
their lives lay in promoting trade between two communities across the
border. On gurdwaras in Pakistan, the Prime Minister said, “The
government is aware of the desire of Sikhs to pay obeisance there and in
the last two-and-a-half years we have been working towards it.”
“The relations between India and Pakistan have improved and bus services
between Amritsar-Lahore and Amritsar-Nankana Sahib are continuing.
Because of this, the trade has also increased and the people of Amristar
have benefited from this,” he said.
Dr Singh said Amritsar will again become a “prominent center” of trade.
“It is not just a dream but my firm belief.” Earlier the Prime Minister
visited Jallianwala Bagh to pay homage to those killed in the
Independence struggle. He also visited the Golden Temple and Durgiana
Temple in the city.
Singh said he welcomed recent new ideas from Pakistan to resolve
differences, which include a row over disputed Kashmir that has
triggered two wars since 1947.
“I had read about some new ideas and thoughts expressed from Pakistan.
We welcome all ideas as they contribute to the ongoing thought process,”
Singh told a public gathering in the northern border city of Amritsar on
Wednesday.
Pakistan’s President Pervez Musharraf said this month that he was
opposed to independence for Kashmir, but India and Pakistan would have
to compromise over the disputed territory and be prepared to give up
their positions in Kashmir.
Singh did not make a direct reference to Musharraf’s proposal, but said
he wanted lasting peace in the region. “The destinies of our two nations
are interlinked.—Agencies |
