India, Pakistan edge towards peace, says Powell

US Secretary of State Colin Powell, in South Asia to reduce tensions between Pakistan and India, said yesterday that the nuclear neighbours appeared to be inching toward talks that could lead to a lasting peace.

India says it would not consider dialogue with Pakistan until it is convinced that Pakistan-based militants have halted incursions into the Indian-controlled portion of the disputed Kashmir region.

After meeting with Pakistani President General Pervez Musharraf, Mr Powell expressed hope that the recent reduction in tensions and "preliminary de-escalatory steps" would bring the rivals to the bargaining table.