Khalilabad (MP): Expressing satisfaction over the recent thaw in Indo-Pakistan relations, Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee today (Apr 20, 2004) said both countries were ready to counter the menace of terrorism together.

"The situation has changed and now it can be said that efforts are on to deal with those using bombs (terrorists) together," he told an election rally in Khalilabad.

"Times have changed and even those in power in Pakistan are averse to terrorism," the Prime Minister said.

Referring to the naxalite problem in the country, he said, "Some people take up arms, hurl bombs and landmines to claim the lives of policemen, but they should understand that violence cannot solve the problems related to rozi roti."

All-round development can be ensured only through peaceful means, Vajpayee added.

Hitting back at those charging him with often shifting his stand, he said, "A person changing his stand cannot get elected to the Lok Sabha continuously for 40 years.

"There has to be some difference while speaking about Indo-Pak relations now when the situation has changed for the better, with cricketing ties being revived compared to the times when the Kargil war was on," Vajpayee said.

"Those criticising me should understand that ways of expression change as per the situation but principles and policies remain unchanged," he said.