"Essential": Russia on Indian Premier's Pakistan Statement

The Indian Prime Minister's latest statement on Pakistan has come as a stride to improve South Asian developments, says Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

As Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was addressing parliament yesterday, he once again pointed out the Cabinet desire to settle Indian relations with Pakistan. In particular, India is willing to restore bilateral diplomatic relations at an ambassadorial level, and resume air transport.

Moscow has always favoured the shift of Indian-Pakistani relations to a peaceful arrangement, says the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs press and information department.

The ministry regards Mr. Vajpayee's statement as a stride toward a normal situation in South Asia, and hopes Pakistan will respond with positive steps.