Author:
Publication: India Today
Date: June 10, 2002
* UNITED STATES
"The only thing that counts is
that Musharraf stops infiltration across the LoC."
Colin Powell, Secretary of State
"Musharraf should show results in
stopping people crossing the LoC and ending terrorism rather than testing
missiles."
George Bush President
America is asking India and Pakistan
to exercise restraint as it firmly believes in the nuclear flashpoint theory.
It has pressurised Musharraf to stick to his public statements and stop
infiltration into Kashmir. Wants India to demobilise its forces from the
border if Pakistan stops terrorism. Has pinned hopes on Musharraf for countering
terrorism but believes that certain sections of the ISI are not under his
control.
* RUSSIA
"We will take steps to stop escalation
of an Indo-Pak conflict."
Vladimir Putin, President
Says that border tensions are due
to unending anti-national activities of the jehadis based in territory
under Pakistan's control. Is solidly behind India.
* CHINA
Beijing wants to avert an Indo-Pak
war. It would prefer neutrality, despite pressuring Pakistan gently. Its
greatest fear is increased US presence in the region.
* UNITED KINGDOM
"We are four square with civilised
governments, including India, in our approach to terrorism."
Jack Straw, Foreign Secretary
Britain is closely co-ordinating
with the US to defuse tensions on the Indo-Pak border. Has rubbished Pakistan
claims of a freedom struggle in Kashmir and feels that the 1947-48 UN resolutions
on Kashmir are not valid in 2002.
* JAPAN
"India should opt for self-restraint
to defuse tensions."
Junichiro Koizumi, Prime Minister
Hopes that Pakistan will take concrete
and visible action to stop infiltration. Warns Musharraf that economic
aid to Pakistan will be up for review if he does not curb cross-border
terrorism in Kashmir.
* EUROPEAN UNION
"Pakistan's half-baked approach
against terrorism is not acceptable." Chris Patten, Commissioner on External
Affairs
Wants India and Pakistan to reduce
tensions as the first step to resuming dialogue. Says terrorism has no
possible excuse or justification.
