Press Statement
The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has issued the following statement:
CPI(M) Welcomes India’s Invitation to Musharraf for Talks
The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) welcomes the invitation extended by the Prime Minister of India to Pakistan Chief Executive, General Pervez Musharraf, for talks. The CPI(M) has always been holding the view that only a meaningful dialogue with Pakistan in pursuance of the Lahore Declaration and the Shimla Agreement can lead to easing of tensions in the region and both parties will be able to understand each others views.
Declaration of the cease-fire by the government of India could not lead to any fruitful results in absence of any direct talks between India and Pakistan.
The earlier announcement made by Musharraf that he was prepared to meet Indian Prime Minister anywhere and India’s lack of positive response to this call created an impression that India was avoiding direct talks on outstanding issues between India and Pakistan. This step by the government of India will dispel these apprehensions among others.
The CPI(M) hopes that the talks between India and Pakistan will contribute to a great extent in reducing tension between two neighbouring countries and ultimately pave the way for reduction of tension in the Indian sub-continent.