‘The government sticks to the commitment made to Vajpayee’

The Indian political leadership’s initial reaction after the blast was quite positive. But the Indian media jumped to the conclusion that Pakistan was responsible, putting the political leadership on the backfoot. The stance adopted by India will neither serve the peace process nor India itself.

What will be Pakistan’s approach once the talks resume?

We need a peace partner. A section of the media and some politicians in the country have accused the Government of being unduly flexible vis-a-vis India. However, peace with India is in Pakistan’s interest as it will pave the way for direct foreign investment and boost the economy. Both countries have gained equally from the peace process.

Militants say that the armed struggle internationalised the Kashmir dispute. What is your stance on it?

Doesn’t the present of militant organisations such as the Muttahida Jihad Council in areas under Pakistan’s control undermine Musharraf’s plan for a negotiated settlement?

First of all, the government of Pakistan stick to the commitment Musharraf made to the former Indian prime minister AB Vajpayee that we would not allow our territory to be used against India. Besides deploying hundred of troops, India has also fenced the LoC while its army is trying to stop infiltrators. The Indian leadership itself has repeatedly admitted that infiltration has decreased. Even then, it is not easy to stop those who are prepared to do anything, even sacrifice their lives.

HERALD