Question : PEACE PROCESS BETWEEN INDIA AND PAKISTAN

(a) whether the sudden assassination of Ms. Benazir Bhutto in Pakistan is likely to have an adverse impact on the peace process initiated by both the Governments;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether further meetings are proposed to be held to give further boost to the peace process; and

(d) if so, the dates fixed for the same and the level at which the talks are likely to be initiated?

THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI PRANAB MUKHERJEE)

(a) to (d) Government are ready to resume the Composite Dialogue process as soon as the new government is in place in Pakistan. It remains our hope that we will be able to resolve outstanding issues and build a mutually beneficial relationship with Pakistan in an atmosphere free of violence and terrorism.