Zardari asks India to behave responsibly, not aggravate tensions

Islamabad, Jan 16 (ANI): Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has said the situation in South Asia will aggravate if India does not behave responsibly.

He warned that India continues to escalate tensions, which is certainly not helpful to the cause of peace, security and stability of the region.

Talking to US Ambassador to Pakistan Anne W Patterson here, Zardari said that despite Pakistan's flexible behaviour, the Indian authorities are making statements; especially the remarks by the Indian Army Chief that all options are open against Pakistan were unfortunate.

Host of issues with regard to the security situation, the war against terrorism, the tense situation between Pakistan and India, the investigation of the Mumbai carnage, and the upcoming visit of Zardari to US to attend the oath taking ceremony of US President-elect Barack Obama were discussed during the meeting, The Nation quoted sources, as saying.

The President also asked the international community to determine who is defusing tension or who is escalating tension in the region.

Pakistan continues to make every effort to defuse tension in South Asia and has repeatedly stated that it is prepared to extend its cooperation to the Indian Government concerning the Mumbai attack, Zardari said.

He said that Pakistan is sincerely reviewing all evidences provided by India with regard to the Mumbai attacks, but made it clear that no Pakistani would be handed over to India for investigation if found guilty in Mumbai mayhem.

Action would be taken in Pakistani court in accordance with country's law, Zardari added.

India has not given any evidence on Mumbai attacks, but just information, he said while urging India to also give positive response to Pakistani offer. (ANI)