Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Zhang Qiyue says China is glad to see the recent positive steps taken by both India and Pakistan to improve their relations.

She notes China sincerely hopes the two nations will resolve their differences peacefully through dialogues and will jointly contribute to peace, stability and development in the South Asian region.

Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee has voiced his readiness to restore diplomatic ties and air transportation with Pakistan, which is welcomed by Pakistan.

Vajpayee says he will restore civil aviation links broken last year, and will appoint a new ambassador to Pakistan. He also says that India and Pakistan will work towards resolving the disputed Kashmir region.

(cri.com May 4, 2003)