Lahore: Seeking to downplay President Pervez Musharraf's sharp comments against India, Pakistan today (Nov 21, 2004) said that the General was committed to the peace process between the two countries and the confidence building measures (CBM) have entered a "crucial phase".

Spotlight: Kashmir is NOT negotiable

"It was not an angry speech. He is committed to the peace process," Pakistan Foreign Minister Khurshid Mehmood Kasuri said in Lahore referring to Musharraf's speech at the SAFMA (South Asia Free Media Association) meet yesterday (Nov 20, 2004) where he said Islamabad would not give up its "maximalist position" on Kashmir.

Addressing SAFMA delegates on the second day of the meet, Kasuri said, people of Kashmir should be involved in the peace process. "Sooner the better".

"I believe they will actually help India and Pakistan in finding a solution to the Kashmir issue acceptable to all that would lead to genuine and durable peace in the region," he said.