Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

DATE=6/17/02

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

NUMBER=2-291048

TITLE=PAK/INDIA (S)

BYLINE=AYAZ GUL

DATELINE=ISLAMABAD

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: Pakistan says it would reciprocate if Indian forces withdraw from border areas to reduce chances of another conflict between the countries. Ayaz Gul reports from Islamabad.

TEXT: Speaking at a weekly news conference, Foreign Ministry spokesman Aziz Ahmed Khan said that India initiated the current military build up and not Pakistan. He says that once New Delhi starts withdrawing its forces, Islamabad will reciprocate.

/// KHAN ACT ///

We will certainly reciprocate that particular gesture. I think it is a very desirable thing. It should be done immediately that they (India) start withdrawing their forces.

/// END ACT ///

India and Pakistan are under intense international pressure to take measures to avoid a third war over the disputed region Kashmir. New Delhi has recently lifted air restrictions on Pakistani civilian plans and has recalled its warships deployed near Pakistan.

Mr. Khan says these steps are "minor and cosmetic" in nature. He maintains the tensions can only be reduced once India and Pakistan pull back their forces to their "peace time locations". (SIGNED)

NEB/AG/RAE