New Delhi: India sought to play down Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf's decision to skip Indian skies on his way to Dhaka next week and accused Islamabad of showing ''lack of sincerity'' in reducing tensions.

''It is for him to choose the route he wants to take,'' an External Affairs Ministry spokesperson told reporters when asked about the military ruler's decision despite India having lifted overflight restrictions for Pakistani aircraft. Musharraf is scheduled to undertake a three-day official visit to Dhaka from July 29.

She also rejected Pakistan's claim that India was desperately awaiting lifting of overflight restrictions by that country. ''We keep hearing this sort of fantasising.''

''It is not new. We are not impressed with it. It only shows Pakistan's lack of sincerity for reducing tensions between India and Pakistan,'' she said adding, ''It is a telling indication of that''.

India had on June 9 decided to revoke its restrictions on overflight facilities to Pakistani aircrafts on a reciprocal basis but Islamabad termed the step as ''cosmetic and self-serving''.

Restrictions on overflight facilities to Indian aircraft continue to be in place.

The spokesperson said Indian air space has been opened to Pakistani aircraft but Islamabad has chosen not to respond to this ''constructive gesture for reasons best known to it''.

PTI