While returning from a three-day visit to Yekaterinburg in Russia on June 17, PM Dr. Manmohan Singh stated that the central government was ready to engage in a dialogue with the separatists if they were willing to give up violence. Stating that “the option of dialogue is still open,” he added that the government “will welcome even those who are not in the political mainstream.”

Talking about his talks with Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari, Dr. Singh stated that he had asked Pakistan to show the same determination against terrorism directed against India as was being done in dealing with Taliban and Al-Qaeda. The Pakistan President is reported to have responded that they require "some time1."

Meanwhile, President Obama firmly ruled out any US mediation on the Kashmir issue. In an interview with Pakistan’s Dawn TV, Obama noted that India and Pakistan can start a dialogue over issues other than Kashmir and “over time to try to reduce tensions and find areas of common interest.” He added that India and Pakistan were both “great friends” of the US and that it hurts “to see friends fighting2.”

• 1. “Give up gun for dialogue: PM to Kashmir separatists,” Daily Excelsior, June 18, 2009, at http://www.dailyexcelsior.com/web1/09june18/news.htm#1
• 2. “Obama rules out mediation on Kashmir,” Hindu, June 21, 2009, at http://www.hindu.com/2009/06/21/stories/2009062156270100.htm