Pakistan says it is for continued dialogue with India

‘Islamabad does not allow its territory to be used for terrorism anywhere in the world’

Pakistan on Friday put its faith in uninterrupted dialogue with India to resolve outstanding issues.

The spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad said: “necessary channels [were] open with India, including diplomatic and military channels, for a tension-free relationship with India.”

Pakistan had expressed its deep concern at the tensions along the LoC and “we have been communicating our concern to the Indian government. It is our hope that in the larger interest of peace in the region as envisioned by our leadership, tensions along the LoC will be reduced, and ceasefire will be respected by the Indian side,” the spokesperson told Pakistani journalists.

The spokesperson declined to comment on Prime Minister Manmohan Singh accusation of Pakistan allowing its soil to be used for anti-Indian activities. He maintained that “Pakistan does not allow its territory to be used for terrorism anywhere in the world.”

Asked why Pakistan is making preparation for a meeting between the two Prime Ministers late next month in New York, the Foreign Office said this was in line with the stated policy of the present government to pursue a policy of restraint and responsibility.

“And we will also continue to pursue the policy of talks and dialogue to address all issues of mutual interest. The anticipated meeting between the Prime Ministers of Pakistan and India on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly next month would be one such opportunity for talks at the highest level,” the spokesperson said adding, “Should that meeting take place, as indicated by the Prime Minister it would be a useful opportunity to engage in a constructive dialogue to discuss steps to further build trust and consolidate this relationship.’’