By IANS,
Anantnag (Jammu and Kashmir) : The following are the highlights of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s speech here in Jammu and Kashmir Wednesday:
— We have to reverse the brain drain that has denuded the state of its teachers, doctors, engineers and intellectuals.
— I would also urge that the elections to local bodies be held quickly.
— The IT sector in Jammu and Kashmir can be as developed as in other states of the country.
— The picturesque Dal Lake is the icon of the tourism industry. We have been funding a project for the conservation of the lake but progress has been slow.
— The era of violence and terrorism is coming to an end.
— I wish to say again today that we are willing to talk to anyone who has any meaningful ideas for promoting peace and development in Kashmir.
— All the progress that we achieved (in India-Pakistan talks) has been repeatedly thwarted by acts of terrorism.
— I strongly believe that the majority of the people in Pakistan seek good neighbourly and cooperative relations between India and Pakistan. They seek a permanent peace. This is our view as well.
— For a productive dialogue, it is essential that terrorism must be brought under control.
— We will press the government of Pakistan to curb the activities of those elements that are engaging in terrorism in India.
— The real face of the terrorists is clear for the people of Pakistan to see with their own eyes.
— I call upon the people and government of Pakistan to show their sincerity and good faith. As I have said many times before, we will not be found wanting in our response.