Indo-Pak talks are back on track again

Prime minister Manmohan Singh on Friday announced resuming dialogue with Pakistan “despite all problems” to discuss all “outstanding” issues, including Jammu and Kashmir.

“Despite all the problems, we have decided to resume the dialogue process. We will enter these talks with open mind.

We wish to resolve all outstanding issues between the two countries through friendly dialogue and constructive and purposeful negotiations and this include Jammu and Kashmir,” Singh said, while addressing the third convocation of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology in Jammu.

The prime minister, however, hastened to add that they cannot forget what happened in Mumbai and urged Pakistan to leave no stone unturned to bring the culprits to book.

“The activities of extremist groups in Pakistan are a source of concern. I urge Pakistan to take strong and resolute action against these groups that is in the interest of Pakistan, the region and the world at large,” he said.

Singh appealed to the people of J&K give dialogue a chance for addressing “genuine, political, social and emotional grievances”. 
He also announced several welfare projects, including the expansion of Jammu airport at the cost of Rs70 crore.