Islamabad: Pushing the peace process forward, India and Pakistan today (Jul 23, 2004) spoke of the need for tackling terrorism with "renewed vigour" and continuing their dialogue in an atmosphere free of violence, in the first high-level political contact between the UPA (United Progressive Alliance) Government and President Pervez Musharraf.

During a 90-minute meeting with Musharraf at his official Army House residence in Rawalpindi, External Affairs Minister K Natwar Singh shared India's concerns over cross-border terrorism as the two sides discussed all bilateral issues, including Jammu and Kashmir.

"India and Pakistan are committed to discuss and settle all bilateral issues, including Jammu and Kashmir to the satisfaction of both sides," Singh later told reporters at the airport before leaving for New Delhi after his five-day visit.

During his stay in Islamabad, Singh attended SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation) ministerial talks with Pakistan Prime Minister Shujaat Hussain, Premier-designate Shaukat Aziz and Foreign Minister Khurshid Mehmood Kasuri.

Singh said during his meeting with Musharraf, he conveyed to him India's intention to carry on "a sustained and steady dialogue with Pakistan. We reviewed all significant aspects of our relations."

"Both sides reiterated the importance of continuing the dialogue process in an atmosphere free of violence and tackling the scourge of terrorism with renewed vigour," he said.