India PM Wants Peace with Pakistan 

2008-12-15 14:56

 


WONG:
Indian Kashmir has been the focus of two wars between India and Pakistan. But now India’s prime minister shared his intentions of peace and goodwill with his neighboring country.

[Manmohan Singh, Indian Prime Minister]:
"My opinion has always been that both nations (India and Pakistan) should bring about mutual understanding and together should work towards improving their bilateral ties. We want to normalize our relations with Pakistan. We want all issues in Jammu and Kashmir state to be solved in a cordial environment and in a friendly manner."

But following the recent Mumbai terrorist attacks, the prime minister said peaceful relations can only come to fruit if Pakistan cracks down on Pakistan-based militant groups.

Singh also asked Kashmir’s militant youth to put an end to violence and return to normal life.

[Manmohan Singh, Indian Prime Minister]:
"The young people who are taking to extremism, I want to send a message to them that they should leave violent means and lead a normal life and come back to the mainstream of the society."

India and Pakistan have already fought three wars. And a fourth war came close when New Delhi blamed militants based in Pakistan for the December 2001’s attack on the Indian Parliament.