PAKISTAN: Likening the regional dispute over Kashmir to Northern Ireland, British Prime Minister, Mr Blair, arrived in Pakistan yesterday for his third visit to the country in three months, this time urging Pakistan and India to hold "proper, meaningful" dialogue aimed at resolving their dispute.
"Both countries in these very difficult times understand the need both to defeat terrorism and resolve difficult issues through dialogue and partnership," Mr Blair told reporters after talks with Pakistan President, Gen Pervez Musharraf, in Islamabad.
"People can feel strongly about a political cause. People are entitled to their feelings," said Mr Blair.
"People felt strongly about the cause for a united Ireland. But we came to the view that the only way to resolve disputes is through dialogue and a long term political process," Mr Blair said.
Gen Musharraf said that he had assured Mr Blair that Pakistan was ready to enter talks to defuse and de-escalate the situation in the region.
Mr Blair praised Gen Musharraf's comments and added that all nations should be involved in "the fight against terrorism wherever it occurs".
Gen Musharraf said his country rejected terrorism in all its forms - one of his strongest denunciations of extremists since the current increase in tensions with India began.
But in a statement widely expected to signal his country's specific intentions, Gen Musharraf said he would address Pakistan in the next few days about his next course of action, including a decision on whether or not to comply with India's request to turn over 20 suspected terrorists.
An October attack on an Indian legislature and a December 13th attack on the Indian parliament by Kashmiri militants has led both nations to the brink of war, a serious matter for two huge nations with nuclear arsenals.
Mr Blair arrived in Islamabad aboard an RAF Hercules C-130 aircraft amid tight security. Streets were closed throughout the capital.
Mr Blair had lunch with a variety of Pakistani officials at the Marriott Hotel before travelling to the Presidential Palace for his one hour meeting with Gen Musharraf.
Afterwards, he again praised Gen Musharraf for his role in supporting the US and Britain in the aftermath of the September 11th attacks in New York.
"I'd like to express my gratitude for your courage in taking such a strong stand in the international coalition against terrorism," Mr Blair said.
He went on the mention a list of economic benefits and incentives that have accrued to this poverty-stricken country of 143 million people because of Gen Musharraf's decision to support the US military action, including abolishing debts and a business plan for investment.
Gen Musharraf continues to face spirited opposition from Islamic fundamentalist within his own country.
Plans for a democratic election here appear to be on hold, although Mr Blair referenced the continuing need for Pakistan to complete the road map to democracy.
Referring to his talks with Gen Musharraf and the Indian Prime Minister on Sunday, Mr Blair said:"My assessment of the situation is, as ever, there are real problems with trust, conflict and misunderstanding to overcome.
"I do think there is a way through this."
He added that both India and Pakistan must agree that the issue of Kashmir can only be resolved by dialogue.
India holds two militant groups, - the Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Toiba - responsible for the Delhi attack, and has publicly ruled out any dialogue until Pakistan brings them to justice.