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Our Correspondent in Bombay
Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee said on Wednesday that he is optimistic about the visit of General Pervez Musharraf next month.
"We have created a proper climate and I am still hopeful of the meeting," Vajpayee said before leaving the Breach Candy hospital for New Delhi.
He said he would call for an all-party meeting to discuss the issues before meeting General Musharraf.
Vajpayee asserted that Jammu & Kashmir is an integral part of India. "The question should not arise about the discussion on J&K. One-third of Kashmir is with Pakistan and certainly some questions will be raised. But there is no change in our stance," he said.
But he did not disclose the date and venue of his forthcoming meeting with Gen Musharraf.
Asked about the cut in Pakistan's defence budget, he said, "The amount is very less. I don't see any link with the talks."
He added that both countries are spending far more on defence than on social programmes.
Asked what the ideal outcome of the talks would be, he said, "Tension-free relations is my dream."
Vajpayee also appreciated the non-official-level efforts to ease tensions between the two countries.
On the violence in Manipur, Vajpayee said, "It was very unfortunate that so many people died in Manipur because of a misunderstanding. We have already stated that the borders of Manipur will not change."
He hoped Manipur would return to normalcy soon.
Earlier, the prime minister, who was on a wheelchair, thanked Bombayites for their warmth and affection.
"I am going for the second time and I am confident that I will not have to leave three times as I have only two knees," he quipped.
Vajpayee said it would take a week for him to walk, after which he would resume normal work.
The prime minister's right knee was operated upon at the Breach Candy Hospital on June 7 by US-based surgeon Chittaranjan Ranawat.
Vajpayee is likely to resume his official engagements from Thursday.
EARLIER REPORT: No compromise on Kashmir: Vajpayee
ALSO SEE: The PM's surgery: The full coverage
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