Washington: The United States "will press India and Pakistan towards dialogue on all issues including Kashmir", says a State Department report.

The US State Department and Agency for Development Strategic Plan for fiscal years 2004 to 2009 sets forth the Secretary of State's direction and priorities for both organisations in the coming years.

"Reducing tensions between India and Pakistan, both armed with nuclear weapons, is critical to regional and world security. We will press India and Pakistan toward dialogue on all issues, including Kashmir," the report says.

"We will continue to work with Pakistan to promote reforms that will create a more stable, Democratic, and prosperous nation. With India, a sister Democracy, we will continue to work together on shared strategic interests," it adds.

In Afghanistan, the Department and USAID will lead the international effort to establish economic reconstruction, security, and Democratic political stability, based on an effective Central government and denial of safe haven for terrorists.

In Nepal and Sri Lanka, "we will support processes to end civil conflicts. We will take concrete steps throughout the region to empower women, emphasise protection of Human Rights, and help establish institutions that promote the rule of law based on international standards.

PTI