Washington: Lauding the successful conclusion of polls in Jammu and Kashmir, the US asked India and Pakistan to resume dialogue on all issues, including Kashmir, and said "lasting settlements" can only be achieved through talks.

Terming Premier A B Vajpayee's "personal commitment to making (the elections) transparent and open", a critical factor in taking the Democratic process forward, US State Department spokesman Richard Boucher commended the Election Commission of India and "the courage of the candidates and voters who chose to participate despite the violence".

"The Kashmiri people have shown they want to pursue the path of peace," he added.

Calling on India and Pakistan to make a "strenuous effort" towards an early resumption of diplomatic dialogue on all outstanding issues, including Kashmir, Boucher said a lasting settlement, which also reflects the needs of the Kashmiri people, can only be achieved through dialogue.

Appreciating India's commitment to continue dialogues with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, Boucher said, "We hope this will address improvements in governance and Human Rights."

Condemning the terrorist attacks "aimed at disrupting a Democratic process and intimidating the Kashmiri people", Boucher said US welcomes assurances from the Indian government that it will investigate reports of irregularities during the elections.

"It is important that these assurances are followed through," he said.

PTI