UN Secretary General Kofi Annan on Thursday said that it was the right time for India and Pakistan to resume their stalled dialogue and he was ready to support such a move.
“I am ready to support the dialogue in any way I can,” Annan told reporters at Delhi airport soon after his arrival in New Delhi on a three-day visit. “My good offices will remain available should the parties wish to engage under UN auspices,” Annan said. He said that there was need for return of the spirit of the Lahore Declaration and renewal of dialogue with Pakistan to reduce tension and build confidence. “This is essential for peace of both nations and security of people of Kashmir who have had too many years of violence and suffering. It is time to begin healing the wounds to restore trust and regain a sense of common future,” he said. Annan, who will meet the Indian leadership on Friday, said, “So long as grievances persist and violence continues in Kashmir, the two countries will be unable to tap the full potential of this region.” Stressing that it was important for the engagement to begin, he said, “It is the right time for India and Pakistan to resume dialogue.” Bureau Report