FOREIGN MINISTER S M Krishna and his Pakistani counterpart Hina Rabbani Khar met in New Delhi today to discuss various important issues and ways to enhance bilateral ties. The talks were held against the backdrop of India being upset with Khar over her recent meetings with Kashmiri separatist leaders. Soon after landing in New Delhi, Khar met Syed Ali Shah Geelani and other separatist leaders in the Pakistan High Commission, a move highly disapproved by India.

Addressing a joint press briefing after the meeting, the FM labelled the talks as fruitful, adding that several important issues were discussed at the meeting. Krishna, however, did not say anything about the Jammu and Kashmir dialogue process or whether it would be pursued in the future.

On her part, the new Pakistani FM said that her country wants to open a new chapter of amity and understanding with India. She did not use the word Kashmir in her address, but expressed hope that the dialogue process would be carried out smoothly.

A joint statement issued after the meeting said that a large number of issues were discussed at the meeting, including terrorism, nuclear issues, measures to ease trade, provision of multiple-entry visa, opening of new entry points on both sides of Kashmir, etc. The two countries have agreed to co-operate on countering terrorism. Also, they have agreed to hold separate expert group meetings on nuclear and conventional CBMs in Islamabad in September.