Lahore bus may open other roads: Abdullah

JAMMU, Feb 5: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Miinister Farooq Abdullah today expressed optimism about the process of normalisation of relations ...

JAMMU, Feb 5: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Miinister Farooq Abdullah today expressed optimism about the process of normalisation of relations between India and Pakistan, saying the resumption of Delhi-Lahore bus service was a welcome step in this direction.

Referring to the willingness expressed by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to visit lahore by the Delhi-lahore and similar response by his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif, Abdullah said the move would create a positive atmosphere in the region and pave the way for better relations between the neigubours. 8220;We wish other roads also to open,8221; he said while expressing his longing for the opening of Sialkote road in Jammu and Kashmir to travel across the border.

He was talking to media persons as he came to attend the first Amar Kapoor memorial lecture, organised here by the Jammu and Kashmir police.

He said developing good relations between the two countries was imperative for the progress and prosperity of the people on either side of the border.

When asked whether he would like to accompany Vajpayee on the inaugural run of the Delhi-lahore bus, Dr Abdullah said, 8220;When situation gets better, I would like to travel on my own bus.8221;

He said continuation of bilateral talks would help minimise differences between the two countries and normalisation of relations between them.

To a question, Abdullah he did not see any threat to the BJP-led government at the Centre, but observed, 8220;Proper coordination between the coalition partners was missing to certain extent and because of that the government had to withdraw certain decisions.8221; He expressed hope that the same would not be repeated in future.

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On asked whether he would join the proposed third front, Abdullah said, 8220;They have invited us and we will talk to them. I have no objection at all.8221;

8220;They have called us to discuss about the ongoing communal disturbances in the country. This is a good signal and we want there should be no communal tension in the country,8221; he added.

About Pakistani premier Nawaz Sharif8217;s offer to visit India by the Delhi-Lahore bus, he said, 8220;I will welcome Sharif to Kashmir and his artistes and sportsmen. I would love it if Noorjehan could come,8221; he said.

He also informed the media persons that the state recruitment board had been dissolved and now the government official would be member of the new board.