PM asks Pak to end terrorist activities from its soil:

Colombo: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has asked Pakistan to implement in "letter and spirit" its commitments to end terrorist activities from its soil and ensure an "atmosphere free from terrorism" to carry forward the bilateral ties.

"We would like to see the implementation in letter and spirit of commitments made to bring to an end terrorist activities originating in Pakistan," Singh said in an interview published in a Sri Lankan newspaper here on Saturday.

Noting that his government had made "substantial progress" in relations with Pakistan, Singh said that there exists a large constituency for peace in both our countries, and there is an opportunity to move ahead.

"India seeks to establish peaceful, friendly and cooperative ties with Pakistan. We are committed to addressing all outstanding issues, including the issue of Jammu and Kashmir, through bilateral discussions.

"However, improvement in our relations requires an atmosphere that is free from terrorism," he said, adding, "we have a duty to ensure that our people prosper and progress in a secure environment.

Stating that South Asia has witnessed the most heinous acts of terrorism in recent times, including the bombing of Indian embassy in Kabul, the Prime Minister said: "the scourge of terrorism must be removed from our midst and criminals and terrorists must never go unpunished."

"There can be no economic growth or development without peace and security. We need to take all necessary measures to combat terrorism and trans-national crimes like trafficking of women and children," he told Himal paper.

"Terrorism weakens and undermines efforts towards peace and normalisation, Singh said, adding "It is only through partnerships and cooperation that we can harness our respective strengths.