Pakistan formally accepts talks offer

The Pakistani military ruler, General Pervez Musharraf, has formally accepted an invitation from the Indian Prime Minister, Atal Behari Vajpayee, to visit Delhi for talks.

It would be the first high-level meeting between the two countries in more than two years.

Tensions between them have been heightened by nuclear tests they have each conducted, as well as by the issue of Kashmir.

In a letter to Mr Vajpayee, General Musharraf said he looked forward to sincere and candid discussions to resolve the Kashmir issue in accordance with the wishes of the Kashmiri people.

No date has been set for the talks - but it is thought it could take place in late June or early July.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service