Musharraf’s assertion on Kashmir nothing new: Fernandes

Defence Minister George Fernandes on Sunday said Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf’s assertion that Kashmir ‘‘is the core issue’’ in Indo-Pak relations was ‘‘nothing new’’ and it has always been Islamabad’s stand. ‘‘Nothing new in that. That has always been their position,’’ Fernandes said, when asked about Musharraf’s remarks during his Saturday address at the India Today Conclave via satellite from Islamabad.

‘‘One should look at what is happening on the border, what is happening in other areas of mutual relationship between the two countries. Nobody has denied that this is an issue… This is very much on the agenda,’’ he said.

Asked about Musharraf seeking a reduction of troops on the borders, Fernandes said: ‘‘The peace process is on… What steps will be taken at what time will be decided by those handling the matter on both sides.’’ —(PTI)