Guwahati: : The proscribed ULFA (united Liberation Front of Asom) has shown the "first signs" of coming to the negotiation table to solve the vexed insurgency problem in the state, said Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today (June 16, 2004).

"Somebody (ULFA leader) has come forward. It is a good sign and we are hopeful of a new beginning," Gogoi told in an exclusive interview.

"We have been always asking them (ULFA) to come for talks and it is a very positive sign that they have responded," Gogoi said.

Without identifying the ULFA leader who he said has "come forward for talks", the Chief Minister said, "At least let there be a beginning and then we will sort out the entire process of talks."

Gogoi revealed that he had talks in this regard with Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil and a host of central leaders and "they are also very hopeful of a solution".

"For the first time a proper environment is being created for the parleys and we welcome the initiatives of the prominent personalities of the state, including noted film director Jahnu Barua and Jyanpith awardee Mamoni Roisam Goswami for the talks.

Asked what would be the response of his Government to the ULFA's reported demand of holding the talks in a foreign country, he replied, "Let us first begin the negotiations, later on we can work out the details as and when required."