Srinagar: In an attempt to blunt criticism from hardliners for accepting New Delhi's offer of talks, Hurriyat Conference Chairman Moulana Mohammad Abbass Ansari today (Dec 5, 2003) said the offer of dialogue reflects a change in the Indian stand, but advocated involvement of Pakistan in finding a permanent solution to the Kashmir problem.

"The offer of dialogue reflects a change in the traditional stand of India on Kashmir problem. However, its sincerity to resolve the Kashmir issue could be judged only once we receive the formal invitation," Ansari said addressing a Friday congregation.

He said Pakistan is an important party to the Kashmir imbroglio and cannot be ignored in the quest for a permanent solution to the long-pending problem.

Hurriyat Conference was firm on its stand that Kashmir could be resolved through fruitful and result- oriented dialogue among the three concerned parties to the issue - India, Pakistan and Kashmir - Ansari said.

However, he demanded confidence- building measures before the initiation of the dialogue process, keeping in view the delicacy of the Kashmir issue.

Ansari said Hurriyat has been advocating initiation of a comprehensive dialogue for finding a solution to the issue.

"We understand that there is no other way left with the three concerned parties as only talks can solve this long-pending issue."

PTI