Islamabad: Welcoming as a "step in the right direction" Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's announcement of troop reduction in Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan today (Nov 11, 2004) said it would have a salutary impact on the peace process between the two countries.

"We welcome this wise decision by Indian Prime Minister. We understand that the step has been taken to help the ongoing peace process," Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Masood Khan said while reacting to Singh's decision.

Also read: Manmohan announces reduction of troops in JK

Pakistan has always maintained that the environment of confidence building measures between the two countries should be taken to Jammu and Kashmir, he said.

"We think the decision on the eve of the Eid-ul-Fitr will have a salutary impact. It is a step in the right direction and can pave the way for respect of human rights," he said.