[There seems to be complete agreement between the two prime ministers, that terrorism is the biggest problem for both countries. Now if both countries could only agree to call-off those who are within their sphere of influence.]
Terrorism biggest problem for Pakistan: PM
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OKARA: Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani said terrorists are defiling the face of Islam, adding terrorism and militancy are absolutely alien to Islam, Geo News reported Sunday.
Addressing the ceremony of Urs of Baba Karmanwal here, he said the biggest problem afflicting Pakistan is terrorism. India ready to discuss all issues with Pakistan: Singh
NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said India was ready to discuss all issues with Pakistan in an atmosphere free of terrorism. In an interview with Saudi journalists prior to his departure to Saudi Arabia, Singh said there was no alternative to dialogue for resolving the issues that divide us. “There is no change in our position. We seek a peaceful and normal relationship with Pakistan. We should be good neighbours. In that quest, we have consistently sought to engage those in Pakistan who are ready to work with us,” he said. Today the primary issue is terrorism, he said when asked India’s position on resumption of talks with Pakistan. To a query as to how the Kashmir issue could be solved once and for all, Singh said “Jammu and Kashmir and its people have suffered repeatedly at the hands of alleged terrorism from across the border.” This has militated against the will of the people of the State, who have time and again voted in large numbers in democratic elections to unambiguously reject violence,” he claimed. However, he said we are ready to discuss all issues with them in an atmosphere free from terrorism. “Extremism and terrorism are major threats not only to India, but also to Pakistan, and all its other neighbours,” he said while responding to a question. When asked about India’s partnership with the Gulf states, especially Saudi Arabia and collective measures with Saarc states and Gulf states to combat terrorism, Singh said the Saarc Council of Ministers Meeting in February 2009 issued a Ministerial Declaration on Cooperation in Combating Terrorism. “Terrorism remains the single biggest threat to peace, stability and to our progress. Global efforts are needed to defend the values of pluralism, peaceful co-existence and the rule of law. All the member countries of the GCC share India’s concerns relating to extremism and terrorism,” he said. When asked about India’s intention to conclude a defence pact with the Kingdom, Singh said India did not have a defence agreement with Saudi Arabia. |
