Vohra calls on Azad; discuss dialogue with separatists

Srinagar, Aug 25 (UNI) The Centre's interlocutor on Kashmir N N Vohra today called on Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad and discussed various issues pertaining to peace and development of the troubled state.

The two also discussed the follow-up of a series of talks held between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and various separatist groups, including the moderate faction of the Hurriyat Conference, led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

The meeting lasted 90 minutes.

Interacting with a high-profile media delegation from Bangladesh, Mr Azad had expressed the hope that the Hurriyat Conference will muster enough courage to join the ongoing dialogue process aimed at restoring peace and normalcy in the strife-torn state.

The Chief Minister said there was an open invitation to the Hurriyat leaders to join the negotiations.

Mr Azad said he and his government had repeatedly announced that any group which believes in peace and disassociates itself from violence was welcome to join the dialogue process for restoration of normalcy in the troubled state.

''I hope the Hurriyat Conference will muster courage to join the dialogue process,'' he added.

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