London: In a clear endorsement of India's stand, Britain has categorically stated that the key to resolve the Kashmir issue is for Pakistan to end all support for terrorism in any form.

"The key is for Pakistan to end all support for terrorism in any form and, if that proves to be the case, for India to be willing to enter into a sensible dialogue about Kashmir," British Prime Minister Tony Blair said in the House of Commons.

Replying to a point raised by Gerald Kaufman (Labour), Blair recalled his bilateral meeting recently with Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at the Commonwealth Heads of Government in Abuja, Nigeria, and said, "I believe that there is strong desire on all sides to make progress (on Kashmir issue)."

The omens were better than they have been, Blair said, adding, "Over the last 18 months there has been some progress, but still further progress is required. I remain sure that both Governments are committed to making that progress."

To a point made by Kaufman that during his recent visit to Islamabad, President Pervez Musharraf had assured him of his determination to progress towards full Democracy in Pakistan, the Prime Minister said, "You are quite right about the movement towards Democracy within Pakistan, which is extremely important. The signs are basically positive there."

PTI