Pakistan and India say they will start talks next month to resolve their differences - including the bitterly divisive issue of Kashmir. The countries' leaders are "confident" the talks will bring peace, Indian Foreign Minister Yashwant Sinha said.
Recent months have seen a gradual thaw in relations after a period of prolonged military confrontation.
The announcement comes after Pakistan's President, Pervez Musharraf, met Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee on Monday - their first meeting for nearly three years.
Are the talks a breakthrough in relations between India and Pakistan? Can the Kashmir dispute be resolved?
This debate is now closed. Read a selection of your comments below.
The following comments reflect the balance of opinion we have received so far:
I was truly appalled when I heard that Prime Minister Vajpayee had chosen to hold talks with the President Musharraf whilst Pakistani backed militants were continuing to aim their bombs and guns at the innocent Kashmiri people and the soldiers there to protect them. Has he forgotten the lessons from the Agra summit - Pakistani sponsored militants tried to destroy the Indian Parliament soon after!
Kets, England
India-Pakistan talks is not a breakthrough because history has shown that Pakistan will never stop its support to the Kashmiri militants. There is only one solution either India invades Pakistan or gives Kashmir to Pakistan in donation.
Jagdeep, Singapore
I fully support General Musharraf and Indian Prime Minister's peace moves. We have had enough hatred and it has lasted more then 50 years. Let's work together for a better future for both of our countries and improve the life of the common folk.
Sadiq Muhammad, Ottawa, Canada
I think Pakistan and India should give Kashmiris the right to decide their future.
Vincent, Paris, France
As a Kashmiri with family on both sides of the LOC (Mirpur and Srinagar), I can tell you that Kashmiri people are sick of India and the oppression committed by its forces. Unfortunately members of the Indian Army are rarely punished for crimes such as rapes, torture and extra judicial killings. The vast majority of Kashmiris want nothing do with India and this is evident in the popular support for separatist groups.
Tahir Lone, Surbiton, UK (Kashmiri)
 |  Being the real victims and subjects of this dispute, the Kashmiris have a rightful, necessary, and constructive role to play in the peace process  |
Inclusion of the people of Kashmir is the missing ingredient for a complete vision for a workable peace process.
If a peace process is to be just and sustainable, it must be accepted that Kashmir is not a territorial dispute; it is about the future and aspirations of living people in Kashmir. It is the reality of loss and injustice faced by the Kashmiri population and the very deep and real Kashmiri aspiration for freedom and justice that encompass the major substantive component of the Kashmir Dispute.
Being the real victims and subjects of this dispute, the Kashmiris have a rightful, necessary, and constructive role to play in the peace process. No solution on Kashmir will be lasting unless it is legitimate in the eyes of the people of Kashmir.
Usmaan R Ahmad, Kashmir
I have been waiting for this news for several years. I am glad to see India and Pakistan taking constructive steps toward a peaceful solution. Indians and Pakistanis share the same view, vision culture, food and land. It only makes sense to live in harmony. I look forward to further positive developments between both countries
Jitesh Jani, USA
India consists of a very complex, delicate system of interaction between people of different languages, cultures, creed and even races. As far as I am concerned they are all Indians regardless of their background. But tensions run high nonetheless. If, for example, Kashmir became independent, it may well be seen as a watershed in other volatile regions within India. India cannot afford to cause mass fragmentation. Remember what happened to the former USSR. I am intrigued as to what shape the "solution" may take.
Don Bradd, UK
| The only hope is when Pakistan becomes secular and democratic state |
Quite frankly one must be optimistic, but I don't see any great benefit coming out of these talks. We are talking of differing mindsets that will never merge. Pakistan is a state that has shared nuclear technology with a number of Islamic dictatorial regimes (and is one as well). The only hope is when Pakistan becomes secular and democratic state then there is a chance of some peace in the future. Pakistan has a long walk to take before it achieves this political state. Kashmir is part of India and will remain so based on International laws. The sad part is that the Kashmir issue is the very basis of survival of the rather oppressed Pakistani people. When Pakistan has so much at stake on the Kashmir issue no statesman can resolve this mindset. This rather strange rosy view by the media is just sadly wishful thinking in the main.
Robert, UK The world needs leaders that will make the difficult decisions to achieve peace. These two men can be recognized for generations as those with the courage to bestow a legacy of peace and prosperity to their people. The alternative is to be just another name in history books of someone who maintained the status quo or sunk his country into disaster.
Peter Hammond, Minneapolis, MN
The Kashmir dispute can be resolved; all it needs is for the leaders of both countries to make a determined effort at finding a solution that everyone can live with. I hope them every success, certainly ordinary people all over the world are hoping that this dispute between India and Pakistan can finally come to an end. As nuclear powers, they have an added duty to show a reasoned and responsible attitude in dealing with this issue. I hope they consult the population of Kashmir, on both sides of the disputed border, before concluding any final deal.
Shokat Akbar, Nottingham
Simple solution to Kashmir problem is that both sides keep the area that they have and open up the border to people on both sides. This way neither can say that they gave up any land.
Jatinder Singh, Chicago, USA
| Neither of two governments is interested at all in what Kashmiri people want |
I as a Kashmiri feel that neither of two governments is interested at all in what Kashmiri people want. They would perhaps sit down decide that the two countries keep what they've got in terms of territory and call it quits such a 'solution' however will never be accepted by the Kashmiri people and the peace in south Asia will continue to be under threat unless Kashmiri people are given the right to decide their future free from any pressure from either of the two foreign forces.
Asad, (British Kashmiri) About time, same people small differences need to move on... resolve this issue and help shift both countries out of the third world label.
Nav, Lahore, Pakistan
It is funny as how Indians and Pakistanis live peacefully in other countries they reside in. In the US I had two Pakistani roommates for three years - all through my college years. If I were in India I might not have done the same. We all need to broaden our horizons and live peacefully. Just reducing the defence budget by 25% will help the poverty stricken in the region. This goes for all countries including the US, UK and all other "DEVELOPED" nations of the world. Where people assume there is no poverty.
MG, US
There is tremendous optimism among the people. The leaders must not let them down. Let both countries focus on education, health, basic amenities and tackle poverty, ignorance. People deserve better.
Dr RN Srivastava, India
| it is an opportunity to build the trust among themselves so as to stabilize the region |
All of us know that India and Pakistan have the potential to form a strong economic alliance in Asian region, it is an opportunity to build the trust among themselves so as to stabilize the region. The two countries must find a common interest on the Kashmir state and develop it as the tourist attraction.
Sameer, Germany There is a pressing need at this time to have a peace accord and no war treaty between the two countries. There are examples in the history where statesmen and wise leaders have chosen this path. People on both sides of the border are suffering. Unless there economic and health conditions improve, these two nations cannot come out of the stigma of being underdeveloped countries. This can only be done by diverting resources from war preparation to development and public sector. Best of luck.
M. A. Kaleem, USA
If there is wisdom there will be peace. I cannot at this early stage empathize with Pakistan govt. (that of course doesn't include Pakistani people) for, they divided Kashmiri's based on religion, they are the cause of woes of half a million people still dying in camps in Jammu! And taking peace away where strife did not exist. It's a good move, I only hope it's just as sincere. For me at the moment it's a case of once bitten twice shy!
Hema, India
There has already been partition of India in 1947. Pakistan must stop using religion as basis of obtaining further partition of India. This is since India has the world's 2nd largest Muslim population, the religion argument does not apply. Only a foolish leader will agree to further division of India. Pakistan must learn to live and let live.
Subhash Malhotra, UK
| To believe that the people of India and Pakistan cannot put the past behind them is a great underestimation |
Germany and France were also a little angry at each other about sixty years ago. People then would have held the current situation impossible (EU, NATO and the "axis of old Europe"). To believe that the people of India and Pakistan cannot put the past behind them, is a great underestimation. I hope this breakthrough will open the door to a united South Asian powerhouse.
Robert Arisz, Amsterdam
Unfortunately, I believe the olive branch is yet to take centre stage. The people of both nations have always wanted peace and unity. Hidden agendas, murky politics on the side of the 'leaders' of these countries continue to cause damage. Until those at the helm decide to change course, breakthroughs are a distant thing.
Darab Khan, London, UK
| There can be no happier time than to be able to call Pakistanis our brothers |
We are siblings, born of the same land but we fight like estranged brothers, in blind distrust. One honest moment can change all this. The honesty must be apparent on both sides. May we never look upon each other with wary eyes again. May this meeting be the last we make looking over our shoulders. There can be no happier time than to be able to call Pakistanis our brothers. May this feeling reverberate on both sides of the Indus.
Ambrish R Kochikar, India/USA
I hope Mr Vajpayee and Mr Musharraf read the comments in this forum. This will let them know how desperately are people from both sides looking for peace.
Junaid, USA
Today India and Pakistan have an opportunity to teach the so called educated and rich countries, that there is an alternative to war. Indians and Pakistanis are both an educated and civilized nation. They can overcome any difference through dialogue and negotiations.
NK, Canada
We (Bangladeshi) are happy to be separated both from India and Pakistan and I want that this was happen to Kashmiris.
Baz, Bangladesh
We have seen this before. The leaders will have a party and drink tea and then what... nothing. I don't expect anything form this so called peace movement, from either side.
Sheraz, Canada/Pakistan
| I smell a Nobel Peace Prize |
Yes, and I smell a Nobel Peace Prize. It's about time. India and Pakistan have more in common than most other nations on Earth. It's the maturity of their middle classes that now allows these great nations to put away their mistrusts and superstitions. Kudos to those who support a lasting Indian-Pakistani peace.
Michael, USA
Hopefully South Asia will be on the track of progress for a better tomorrow.
Medagoda Abeytissa, Pepiliyana, Sri Lanka
The current thaw in relations between Islamabad and Delhi is great news. I truly hope that what we are witnessing is the beginning of the long-awaited peace process which will bring lasting friendship and cooperation between India and Pakistan.
Marcin Przeszlowski, Poland I hope the input of the Kashmiris will be an equal factor in deciding the road of peace and progression. This must be a three-way peace process otherwise the real victims of this conflict will never see their problem rectified. I pray that peace shall be achieved.
Muhammed, Kashmiri
Positive steps by both leaders. It is an opportunity for these leaders to set an example to other nations by negotiating for peace over war.
Faisal Qureshi, London
A small step towards permanent peace. Hope it brings peace and prosperity to the region in the long run. Kudos to Mr. Musharraf and Mr Vajpayee for this bold summit.
Kirti Shah, USA
Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! Inshallah (God willing) peace is at our doorsteps now.
Sadiq Ali Bohra, Hyderabad, Pakistan
Now or never. The best time to solve all disputes including Kashmir. It was never so close.
Zafar Mahmood
| I don't see much hope from this peace process |
I am surprised by the optimism shown by people here. Surely they have forgotten what happened after the Lahore 'peace process'. Pakistan has a habit of perceiving India's peace overtures as signs of weakness and carrying out misadventures like Kargil. So I don't see much hope from this peace process also.
Animesh P, India
Peace can only be achieved if leaders of both countries could think beyond Kashmir i.e. forming a union of South Asian countries similar to EU. People of the region will then be able to live and travel freely it will put an end to petty regional conflicts aspiring for independence thus achieving lasting peace.
Himmat Singh, USA
What the future hold for us is yet to be seen but what I can say with pleasure is that today I feel civilized and a bit proud of the leaders of the region.
Navaid Anwar, Pakistan
To those who are inspired: I commend/envy your blind trust. To those who are in disbelief: I welcome debate, and to those who are indifferent at this early stage in the talks: I empathize.
Akshay Sateesh, India/USA
| The future seems very bright for India, Pakistan, and the rest of the region |
As an Indian, I am very happy to hear the news from Islamabad. To solve the problems of people, political will is of the utmost importance, and this step taken by the respected Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee and Pakistan's President, Pervez Musharraf, is the best example. It might be the right time to solve the Kashmir problem. The future seems very bright for India, Pakistan, and the rest of the region.
Subhash, India/Malaysia This is definitely a breakthrough. Both countries can now reconcile their differences and become friends.
Hassan Askari, Pakistan
I think India is just passing time; it is not sincere in solving the Kashmir problem. That's why they didn't take any reasonable initiative for dialogues on the Kashmir cause. I hope my prediction will be proved after few months.
Abdul Hafeez Khan, Pakistan
| There will never be any final settlement about Kashmir until a referendum is agreed |
There will never be any final settlement about Kashmir until a referendum is agreed. Musharraf is not an elected president through popular voting. So there cannot be any true friendship as the two nations are opposed to each other in every possible manner.
Bashar, London, UK It's nice to see positive attitude from leaders of both countries and whole world should support them. Peace is most important for the whole world at a time like this. Dividing boundaries between countries are not for dividing people but for uniting them and live like good friends as everyone has got only one life to live in this world.
Cashinde, India
These are very small steps in a marathon run for peace. We welcome these steps but a few drops of rain have never ended famine. Let's be realistic, hopeful and pray that common sense and ground reality finally sink in for both Pakistan and India.
Z Ali, UK (Kashmiri)
I hope this time there will be an outcome from this talk.
Akash, India
It's really heartening to see that our leaders are at least meeting. I think we should be really positive about it. Only talks can bring the solution to the problems of this region.
Sarfraz Malik, Pakistan
| A break in the ice rather then a breakthrough |
A break in the ice rather then a breakthrough. It is better they are talking than not talking. However talking isn't enough. We need solid steps towards peace. If and only if the Kashmir issue is amicably resolved to the satisfaction of the Kashmiri people, then the sky is the limit. Imagine the potential of a peaceful India and Pakistan. It would be nice to have China added to SAARC not only for the mediatory role they could play but also as their economy could add a huge market to all nations within this block.
Imran Ahmed, UK
A wise man once said "only the dead have seen the end of war", and today we pray from the bottom of our hearts that his wisdom is proven wrong. The leaders of the two nations should realize that the future is right here, right now.
Sharif Ismail Qureshi, USA
People of the region want peace and the leadership of both sides should play their role in bringing stability to the subcontinent. Now is the right time to resolve the issue of Kashmir.
Asad Pasha, The Hague, The Netherlands
Prospects for peace lie in the acceptance of no further division on the basis of religion. This is not only applicable to Kashmir but should be equally applicable to anywhere in the world. It will reduce separatism which is giving birth to terrorism.
Pradip, India
| Once the "trust" which is lacking from both sides is developed all pieces of the puzzle will fall into place |
The meeting is a first step towards confidence building measures that is much needed and awaited for Pakistan and India. It would be too early to expect a whole lot from the first meeting between Pakistani leaders and Indian Prime Minister. Once the "trust" which is lacking from both sides is developed all pieces of the puzzle will fall into places automatically. We should give a proper time to flourish confidence and the trust both countries require from each other.
Nasir Jadran, USA I think the most viable solution to the dominating issue of Kashmir will breakthrough as India and Pakistan (along with the other Saarc members) realize that economic growth and harmonious opportunities outweigh the differences! As it is the only win-win solution. My deepest hopes are that the leaders and the people of South Asia will unite on day to form the next "USA" - United South Asia.
Anand, United States
Given the bitter rivalries between different countries (not least India and Pakistan) of the seven-nation group this can only be a good start. Mr. Vajpayee is a solid Hindu and peaceful negotiation is a foundation of that religion. He may well go into history as one of the greatest peacemaking politicians who has ever lived. Mr. Musharraf is also to be commended for his willingness to compromise so that these talks can begin. The summit is not just about Kashmir\Jammu and India and Pakistan but the consequences of further mistrust and hostilities in the sub-continent are horrifying and unthinkable! More power to ALL of the leaders of all of these nations.
Malky, Scotland, UK.
There should be formal process of serious dialogue. Use of force will never bring positive results. It is important that process of confidence building measures must continue. Complete peace in Kashmir is important. I believe that serious talks about the Kashmir issue must have taken place between Indian Prime Minister and President of Pakistan.
S. Nizam Uddin Ashraf, Karachi Pakistan The current political developments in South Asia will set both nations, Pakistan and India on a progressive course. The resolution of Kashmir issue is vital for peace between the two nations. It is imperative that all nations collectively convince India and Pakistan to start dialogue over Kashmir dispute.
Syed Rezwi, USA
Vajpayee in his speech mentioned about the 1857 war where leaders from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh fought together against colonial rulers and that he wishes the three countries to celebrate the 150th year of that war together. I think that is the highlight of the summit. I think its time for India, Pakistan and Bangladesh to forget there difference and unify as one country.
Prasas Tippabhotla, USA
I think it would be best to approach this with cautious optimism. Although resolution to this long standing issue will be welcome, such meetings have been conducted in the past with disastrous results.
Gaurav Tripathi, USA/INDIA
I am totally disappointed with the progress so far. We all thought that something substantive will be achieved. But so far the signs are not good enough. I was very hopeful ever since Mr Vajpayee said that we both need to continue talking regularly. But from the start he didn't wish to see Mr Musharraf. I pray that some settlement is achieved for the welfare of the one fifth of humanity that lives in absolute poverty in the sub continent.
Kashif Saeed, Peshawar, Pakistan
Before starting a formal dialogue, people and leaders of both countries should develop trust and respect for each other. The talks are a right step in this direction.
Vas Jai, India / USA
One can only hope...
Krista, USA
Of course the India-Pakistan talks are a breakthrough. All should give full support to both sides to help.
Terence Gaffney, UK
| Great job by both Musharraf and Vajpayee |
Great job by both Musharraf and Vajpayee. I think now people of both countries should support their leaders or lose this golden chance of peace.
Nadir Budhwani, USA As both the countries narrow down their differences, they will find that they have much more in common. This should eclipse their differences, and over a period of time, they should be able to amicably resolve all their outstanding issues. I sincerely hope that the peace initiatives of the two government result in lasting progress and prosperity for the comity of South Asian Nations.
Shwetal S. Joshi, Mumbai, India
Indian PM Vajpayee met Pakistan's PM for about 30 minutes and President Musharraf for about 60 minutes, totalling 90 minutes or so. For nearly 1170 million people of both the countries, they have 1 minute for every 13 million people in 3 years. Gosh they are so busy, they don't have time to even just TALK.
Sadiq Ali Bohra, Hyderabad, Pakistan
Its a step in the right direction. Since both sides have nuclear weapons its a good sign that they are willing to talk. As far as Kashmir is concerned I would ask the UN to intervene.
Charles , Montreal, Canada
While the atmosphere has improved and both governments have recognized the mutual benefits better relations between them would provide, the underlying cause of the tensions, the Kashmir situation has not changed and until it does, there will be no real progress.
Mark, USA
No matter how much dialogue is established I don't think there will ever be peace in Kashmir. Just as there will never be peace in Ireland, Iraq, Afghanistan. The reason being that nobody wants to lose what they've got and nobody will give up what they have taken.
Rizwan Saleem, UK
I think Rizwan's comments are true, nobody wants to compromise as they will be seen to be weak by their respective peoples... It is time for both governments to stop posturing and sort this deeply complex issue once and for all. Only then can India and Pakistan move on...
Bhurinder Gill, UK
To Rizwan: You have hit the nail on the head. Even if Musharraf and Vajpayee compromise on Kashmir, they should fear for their lives. The extremists on both sides of the border will be after them if they make concessions.
Syed Fahad Arshad, Iowa, USA
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