PM asks Pakistan to end terrorist activities from its soil

Colombo, Aug 2 (PTI) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has
asked Pakistan to implement in "letter and spirit" its
commitments to end terrorist activities from its soil and
ensure an "atmosphere free from terrorism" to carry forward
the bilateral ties.

"We would like to see the implementation in letter and
spirit of commitments made to bring to an end terrorist
activities originating in Pakistan," Singh said in an
interview published in a Sri Lankan newspaper here Saturday.

Noting that his government had made "substantial
progress" in relations with Pakistan, Singh said that there
exists a large constituency for peace in both our countries,
and there is an opportunity to move ahead.

"India seeks to establish peaceful, friendly and
cooperative ties with Pakistan. We are committed to addressing
all outstanding issues, including the issue of Jammu and
Kashmir, through bilateral discussions.

"However, improvement in our relations requires an
atmosphere that is free from terrorism," he said, adding "we
have a duty to ensure that our people prosper and progress in
a secure environment.

Stating that South-Asia has witnessed the most heinous
acts of terrorism in recent times, including the bombing of
Indian embassy in Kabul, the Prime Minister said: "the scourge
of terrorism must be removed from our midst and criminals and
terrorists must never go unpunished."

"There can be no economic growth or development
without peace and security. We need to take all necessary
measures to combat terrorism and trans-national crimes like
trafficking of women and children," he told Himal paper.

"Terrorism weakens and undermines efforts towards
peace and normalisation, Singh said, adding "It is only
through partnerships and cooperation that we can harness our
respective strengths.

Commenting on the relationship with Bangladesh, Singh
said India attach great importance to its relations with
Dhaka.

"Our relationship is multifaceted and dynamic and has
expanded substantially in recent years. We are committed to
further strengthening our relations on the basis of
friendship, trust and understanding for the mutual benefit of
our people," he said.

Singh said India supported Nepal's transition to a
democratic, peaceful and prosperous state as per the wishes of
the people and Government of Nepal.