New Delhi, Nov 29: As uncertainty continued over the holding of the Saarc summit in Islamabad in January, Pakistan today accused India of putting "pre-conditions" for its participation, and said it was against the letter and spirit of the grouping's charter. "The government of Pakistan will not countenance any preconditions from any quarters merely to ensure their participation in the summit," the Pakistan foreign ministry said in a statement circulated by its mission here. It said the Pakistan government has noted the statements by Indian leaders and officials "raising preconditions for India's participation" in the 12th Saarc summit. India has made it clear that in the absence of any substance and progress on the economic agenda particularly Sapta and Safta, it would be difficult for Vajpayee to go to Pakistan for the summit.


Bureau Report