The Indian response was as expected -- no to all three until Pakistan withdraws the infiltrators completely from Indian territory. At the end of today's talks, the Government seemed satisfied that Pakistan had got the message.

Despite the initial hesitation to accept Pakistan's offer to send its Foreign Minister and the all round cynicism that Aziz's visit was an exercise in futility, India managed to use the opportunity to spell out its bottomline for de-escalation. According to official sources, the point was driven home politely but forcefully, first by Jaswant Singh and then by Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee.

Both told Aziz that India and Pakistan can move forwardonly if the latter respects the sanctity of the Line of Control. And they both made it clear that India would do whatever was necessary to clear its territory of foreign intruders.

India's tough stance was stated unequivocally by Singh at his press conference. ``The aggression has to be undone, militarily or diplomatically, whichever is done first,'' he declared. If the Pakistani aim in creating the Kargil crisis was to probe nuclear India's resolve, Aziz's visit should give it food for thought.

Since neither side had expected anything to come of the talks, the resultant stalemate was not a disappointment. No schedule has been set for future talks. The Indian side is in no hurry to engage in a futile dialogue while Aziz put it on ``if we feel the need''. But the fact that both shied away from dubbing the talks a failure indicates that the door is open for diplomatic negotiations.

Interestingly, Aziz went back home and promptly flexed his muscles, saying Pakistan was capable of defending itself ``if awar is imposed on us''. New Delhi, however, is choosing to play down his statement.