Navtej Sarna 
Counsellor (Press, Information & Culture) 
Embassy of India, Washington, DC 
(202) 939-7041 

October 8, 1998
New Delhi
 

 In response to a question, the Official Spokesman dismissed as utterly absurd
 Pakistan's claim that it would negotiate on behalf of the "Kashmir people" at the
 forthcoming India - Pakistan talks in Islamabad and that the "Kashmir people" will,
 at a later stage, be involved in these talks. The Official Spokesman reiterated that the
 state of Jammu & Kashmir is an integral part of India and a part of the territory of
 the state is under the illegal and forcible occupation of Pakistan. In keeping with the
 Simla Agreement, India is committed to a resolution of all issues, including this issue,
 through peaceful negotiations.

 During the forthcoming talks, India will also strongly take up Pakistan's abetting of
 terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir. Pakistan's attempts at destabilising the state by
 sponsoring terrorism are continuing unabated. India has successfully thwarted the
 challenge of the terrorists. Pakistan must abandon this policy as it is
 counterproductive not only for good bilateral relations but also for Pakistan itself.

 India remains steadfast in its desire to establish mutual trust and confidence and a
 stable structure for cooperation. India is also determined to address all outstanding
 issues in good faith and sincerity. The composite dialogue process, which will begin
 with the forthcoming discussions in Islamabad and New Delhi, will hopefully, open a
 new and positive chapter in bilateral relations. India is committed to do all that it can
 to make this possible. It is hoped and expected that Pakistan will do the same and
 not use the dialogue for narrow propagandist purposes.