Agencies, Jaipur
Even as brutal killing of two Indian soldiers by Pakistani forces along the Line of Control (LoC) has led to tensions between India and Pakistan, External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid today welcomed positive statements by Pakistan to de-escalate tensions.
Talking to reporters on the sidelines of the Chintan Shivir being held at the Birla auditorium here, Mr Khurshid said,’’ there is a positive tone in some of the statements that has come from Pakistan foreign minister Hina Rabbani Khar and Pakistani High commissioner to India Salman Bashir. We welcome it and will give an appropriate Response.’’
In her inaugural address at the Chintan Shivir, Congress president Sonia Gandhi also said that better and closer relations with immediate neighbours would make for regional peace and have a positive impact on some of border states.
‘’Better and closer relations with our immediate neighbours will not only make for regional peace – they will also have a positive impact on some of our own border states,’’she said.
But at the same time she said dialogue must be based on accepted principles of civilised behaviour.
‘’However, let us be clear. Our dialogue must be based on accepted principles of civilised behaviour. We will never compromise on our vigil and preparedness to deal with terrorism and threats on our borders,’ Ms Gandhi said .
