Shopian (Kashmir): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today (June 4, 2004) said the Congress-led Government at Centre was keen to push forward the peace initiatives with Pakistan and the separatists started by the previous National Democratic Alliance (NDA) Government.

"I was happy to know during my meetings with Prime Minister (Manmohan Singh), Home Minister (Shivraj Patil) and Congress president Sonia Gandhi that the Government at Centre is keen to push forward more vigorously the initiatives started by the last Government," Sayeed said after inaugurating a bridge built jointly by the Army and the State Government.

The Chief Minister said during his meetings with the leaders of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Government, he emphasised the need for further improving the relations with Pakistan and continuation of dialogue with the separatists in the State.

Sayeed asked the people to rise in unison to change the environment of the State.

"If you think what we are doing is right, you should help us... assist us in our efforts to restore peace and normalcy in the State," he said.

He said people should motivate the militants to give up the path of violence so that the peace initiatives are given their due time to succeed.

Sayeed lauded the role of Army in the State saying the force had taken various steps for rehabilitation of children and women affected by militancy.