New Delhi, Aug 24: Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani has asked Pakistan to keep away from the poll process in Jammu and Kashmir and desist from vitiating the atmosphere in the run-up to the assembly elections.

"We expect that our neighbour will not try to interfere in the poll process and create an atmosphere wherein the people face problems," he told reporters here on his return from Britain last night after a three-day visit. Stating India had conveyed to Britain its view point on various issues especially the cross-border terrorism, Advani said he was given an assurance that they (Britain) would extend help in whatever way it was possible.

On his visit to the UK, Advani expressed the hope that close relationship India had developed over the years with Britain would be consolidated further.

Advani said he told British leaders that steps were being taken to ensure a free and fair poll in J&K and that people come out in large numbers to participate in polls without any fear. Bureau Report