SLUG: 2-272163 Pak-India-Kashmir (L-O)
DATE:
NOTE NUMBER:
DATE=2/4/2001
TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT
NUMBER=2-272163
TITLE=PAK/INDIA/KASHMIR (L-O)
BYLINE=AYAZ GUL
DATELINE=ISLAMABAD
CONTENT=
VOICED AT:
INTRO: Pakistan says tensions with India have eased because of recent confidence building moves by both governments in the disputed Kashmir region. As Ayaz Gul reports from Islamabad, the South Asian nations have fought two wars over violence-hit Kashmir, most of which is ruled by India.
TEXT: Indian authorities last November suspended offensive military operations against separatist guerillas in Kashmir in an attempt to end violence in the troubled region. Since then, Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee has twice extended the unilateral cease-fire.
Pakistan responded by promising to exercise - maximum restraint - on a military line of control dividing Kashmir and then announcing a partial pullback of troops from the disputed border. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Abdul Sattar says these moves seem to have eased relations between the two countries.
/// SATTAR ACT ///
As a result of the decisions and initiatives that have been taken over the last few months, the atmosphere is less tense and hopefully, this atmosphere will make it possible to take further steps (to settle the Kashmir dispute).
/// END ACT ///
Mr. Sattar says his country welcomes India's suspension of military operations against separatist groups in Indian Kashmir, but he urges New Delhi to go further.
/// SATTAR ACT ///
We really do not know what is gained by extensions month by month. We do not think this is a good policy. We would much rather see a decision of termination of the policy of use of force, intimidation, violence, repression and a sincere purposeful beginning of a political dialogue to achieve a settlement (of the Kashmir dispute).
/// END ACT ///
India accuses Pakistan of providing military support and bases to more than a dozen militant groups fighting Indian rule in Kashmir. Most of these groups have rejected the cease-fire and vowed to press on with their struggle for independence or union with Pakistan.
/// REST OPT ///
Meanwhile, Mr. Sattar has urged India to allow a delegation from the main separatist alliance in the Indian-controlled Kashmir to visit Pakistan.
The delegation was originally due in Islamabad on January 15th, but was unable to travel because India failed to issue passports to most members of the team. Pakistan hopes the trip may lead eventually to three-party talks between India, Pakistan, and Kashmiri leaders for a settlement of the Kashmir dispute. (SIGNED)
NEB/AG/RAE
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