Pre-conditions on talks with Pakistan dangerous: Mufti Sayeed

Srinagar, Apr 18 (ANI): Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) patron Mufti Mohammad Sayeed on Saturday termed pre-conditions for talks with Pakistan 'dangerous'.

"The pre-conditions set by India that peace process would not be resumed till Pakistan hands over the Mumbai attack accused is dangerous for peace in the South Asia," Mufti told reporters here.

Mufti also said that Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh's stance was not in line with the statesmanship shown by former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee while initiating the peace process in 2004.

"Vajpayee extended hand of friendship during the time of Parliament attack. So I have said to Manmohan Singh that friendship with Pakistan is mandatory. You can change your friend but you can't change your neighbour," Mufti added.

Mufti agreed while it was a fact that the Mumbai attacks had caused an understandable setback to the peace efforts, the challenge remained in bringing it back on track. (ANI)