United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan has welcomed India's positive response to Pakistan's announcement to implement unilateral ceasefire along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir from Eid day.

Annan said he is encouraged by recent efforts by the two countries to build confidence in their relations and to address outstanding problems.

The UN secretary general is said to be following with interest the confidence building measures announced by India and Pakistan's response to them.

Urging both countries to continue these efforts with patience and resolve, Annan said he remains at their disposal to assist in 'any way they consider mutually beneficial'.

India has made it clear that the ceasefire can become 'durable' only if Pakistan stops infiltration of terrorists into Kashmir. It also proposed a ceasefire along the Actual Ground Position Line (AGPL) in Siachen.