Dr.Singh, Zardari working towards 'lessening of tensions': Brown

Islamabad, Aug.2 (ANI): Applauding positive statements from the leaderships of India and Pakistan in the recent past, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has said that both Dr. Manmohan Singh and President Asif Ali Zardari are trying their best to deescalate the tension which soared after the November 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.

In an interview with the 'Garavi Gujarat', a Gujarati-English bilingual weekly, Brown said Britain will do everything to ensure a better relation between both neighbours.

"Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari want to make possible a 'lessening of tensions' after the Mumbai attacks," Brown said.

Describing Dr. Singh as his 'very good friend', Brown said he has a very strong affinity with the region.

"I count him as one of the great leaders and it has been a privilege to work with him," The Nation quoted Brown, as saying.

He said London is ready to stand by any tough decision that Islamabad takes against theerror threat emanating from its soil.

"I know that he (Dr. Singh) and President Zardari want to make possible a lessening of tensions after the Mumbai bombings. I get on well with President Zardari, Prime Minister Gilani and the head of the Army as well and we want to help Pakistan take difficult decision they are taking on terrorism," Brown added.

When enquired whether Britain has any role in lessening Indo-Pak tension, he said : "We will do everything we can to build better relationships." (ANI)