Anantnag (Jammu and Kashmir), Oct 28 (IANS) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said here Wednesday that the traditional tensions between India and Pakistan needed to be eased.
Addressing a large gathering before the inauguration of the 18-km Anantnag-Qazigund railway link, the prime minister, who spoke in Urdu, quoted an Urdu couplet in support of his future vision in India-Pakistan relations.

“Kabhi Asay Bi Manzar Aye Tareek Ki Nazar Mein/ Lamhu Nay Khata Ki aur Sadyoun Nay Saza Payi (History has sometimes witnessed such tragic events where a moment’s mistake had to be borne through centuries of sufferings),” he said.

Manmohan Singh said India had reached out to Pakistan for friendship and cooperation. It was not a sign of weakness.

“In 2004, a fruitful dialogue was held with Pakistan for permanent resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir problem. For the first time in 60 years, people were able to travel across the Line of Control (LoC). Trade between India and Pakistan was increased three-fold and the visas given to Pakistan nationals for travelling to India were increased two times.

“These are no small achievements given our past tensions with Pakistan,” he said.

Manmohan Singh said Pakistan needed to carry its war against terror to a logical conclusion.

“The terrorists want permanent enmity between India and Pakistan and Pakistan must control those who create trouble in India. If these are non-state actors, then Pakistan must destroy their terror infrastructure.

“Friendship and cooperation are in the best interests of India and Pakistan.”