WASHINGTON: U.S. President George Bush has called on India and Pakistan to begin bilateral talks under the Shimla agreement “without preconditions” to solve the Kashmir issue,
“We have called on India and Pakistan to cease preparations for war and to reverse steps already taken which seem provocative to the other side,” Bush told Indian Ambassador Abid Husain when the latter presented his credentials Tuesday.
Bush, who described India and Pakistan as “two friends of the US” said it would be a great tragedy if they chose to settle their differences with the gun rather than through peaceful discussion and compromise.”
Hussain in his remarks referred to the challenges that India faces today,” particularly those of terrorism and fundamentalism” which he said are “direct threats to the secular and representative character of our political system” He said activities of those who espoused violence for political ends could not be condoned.
The deterioration in Indo Pakistan relations follows Pakistan’s refusal to stop helping and encouraging Jammu and Kashmir despite India’s repeated requests.
Bush said the US recognized India’s increasingly important role in promoting international stability “our two democracies serve as models for other nations around the world seeking to build representative institutions.”
He said the potential for expanded trade between India and the US remains largely unrealized but added that it is so attractive that neither country should allow the opportunity to slipway,” we look forward to working with India both bilaterally and in the Gatt to achieve this goal.”
Article extracted from this publication >> June 8, 1990
