New Delhi: Praising outgoing the Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee for his initiative to normalise relations with Pakistan, Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat today (May 22, 2004) said that he was sure that there would be "no hurdles" in the process once the new Congress-led dispensation takes charge at the Centre.

"I thank Vajpayee for taking the historic step to mend relations with Pakistan," Shekhawat said referring to Vajpayee's peace initiative to improve relations with Pakistan.

"Not only Pakistan, but our other neighbours also now feel that talks are the way forward," he said after presenting police medals for gallantry to 45 BSF personnel here.

The Vice President said he was "sure" that there would be "no hurdles" in the continuation of the peace process once the Government headed by Manmohan Singh takes office.

"However, we still have to remain careful as only time will tell about the success of the peace initiative," he said.

Lauding members of the security forces, some of whom laid down their lives to safeguard India's boundaries, Shekhawat said, "The people, country and the Government cannot forget your sacrifices."

However, he expressed anguish that there were some discrepancies in the benefits given to next of kin of Army and paramilitary personnel who had made the supreme sacrifice.

"I have talked to officials regarding this matter and I hope that such discrepancies will be removed soon," he added.