Annan welcomes India, Pakistan decision to partially withdraw troops from border

The United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, today welcomed the decision by India and Pakistan to carry out a partial withdrawal of troops from their border areas.

A statement issued by a UN spokesman said the Secretary-General hoped that this reduction would result in a significant de-escalation of tensions in Kashmir.

“The Secretary-General reiterates his call on both sides to resume their bilateral dialogue with a view to resolving their differences by peaceful means,” the statement said.