NEW DELHI: The minister of state for external affairs, R.L,.Bhatia, declared in the Lok Sabha that there would be no change in India’s policies despite the perceptible change in the US stand on Kashmir, including on Pakistan’s role in encouraging terrorism, and differences in perceptions on the issue of human rights.
Answering a question on the recent visit by the US principal deputy assistant secretary, John Mallot, Bhatia said while there were differences in some areas, there was a “positive direction” in the economic sphere and “good interaction.” He stated, “India will continue to follow policies which are in its best interests.” The minister said the US position, as explained by Mallot, was that Kashmir, “including both sides,” was a disputed territory and that the views of the people concerned should be taken into account India and Pakistan, should try to resolve the dispute through negotiations and Washington would be willing to render whatever assistance was necessary, He reaffirmed New Delhi’s stand that Kashmir was an integral part of the Indian Union.
Article extracted from this publication >> July 30, 1993
