Washington: Democratic Presidential candidate John F Kerry has said if elected President next month he would work towards strengthening the Indo-US ties, insist on Pakistan ending cross-border terrorism and treat the two South Asian neighbours differently as per demands of bilateral relationships.

He said he will work to strengthen cooperation with India in all vital aspects on non-proliferation. "India and US have a very similar view of the need to implement a comprehensive international approach to prevent transfer of nuclear materials and know how to irresponsible Governments and terrorists," he said in an interview to 'India Abroad' weekly.

"I will recognise the vital global role India will play in the 21st century. I will work closely with New Delhi and with members of the Indian-American community to strengthen relationship built on shared values and interests."

Kerry, who promised to visit India if elected President, said he will insist on Pakistan ending cross border terrorism in Kashmir.

"Cross border terrorism must stop. Period. I cannot say that often enough. The support Pakistan has given to terrorist actions in Kashmir official or non-official must cease."

He said, "The time is long overdue for the US to distinguish once and for all, between India and Pakistan and to treat each differently and according to the demands of those bilateral relationships."