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List of terrorists not ready: Pakistan

K J M Varma in Islamabad

Taken aback by India's offer of quick action on its list, Pakistan on Tuesday changed tact and declined to give details of terrorists alleged to have taken refuge in India, but called for talks to discuss and sort out differences arising out of the Indian demand for extradition of 20 criminals and terrorists.

Stating that Pakistan had taken "note" of External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh's statement that India would work "double-time" to extradite any Pakistani fugitives hiding in India, Pakistan foreign office spokesman, Aziz Ahmed Khan said the Pakistani list was under preparation.

"We have taken note of the Indian statement. As far as the list is concerned, I cannot give any details. These are things that procedurally take some time," he said.

Asked why Pakistan chose to wait till India gave its list, Khan gave an elaborate explanation in which he stressed the need for the two countries to discuss the lists as well as issues relating to them directly rather than the media.

"More importantly, rather than discuss these matters either through the media, it is much better that all issues and all subjects are discussed across the table," he said.

In matters like extradition there are several complicated questions involved. There are questions like legal, local legislation, existence or non-existence of extradition treaty, Khan said.

"These are matters that cannot be discussed like that, either through press statements or by making statements. I think the best course of action would be that the two countries sit across the table and discuss all issues," he said.

Asked about reports that Pakistan would not meet India's demand for extradition of 20 wanted men unless India begins talks with Islamabad, Khan said it referred to "making gestures" to resolve the issues through negotiations.

He said: "Pakistan has done its bit. Pakistan will wait for India's response. Pakistan is also ready for talks at all levels. The ball is now in the India's court."

PTI

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