January 17, 2002	Thursday	Ziqa’ad 2, 1422

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 16: Libya will convey the steps taken by Pakistan for defusing tension with India as the Special Emissary of the Revolutionary Council of Libya, Dr Salim bin Ahmed, heads to meet Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee after holding talks with President Gen Pervez Musharraf.

Speaking at a news conference here on Wednesday, the Libyan envoy said during the talks with Gen Musharraf on Tuesday, he was apprised of the measures taken by Pakistan to avoid war.

In reply to a question, Dr Salim said he would not be carrying any special message of Gen Musharraf for the Indian prime minister, but would only brief him about the steps taken by Pakistan.

Dr Salim said during his stay in Pakistan he met a number of senior Pakistani officials including Foreign Minister Abdul Sattar and Chairman of Kashmir Committee Sardar Abdul Qayyum.

Dr Salim would be visiting India for the second time as part of his shuttle diplomacy within the last fortnight.

On his earlier visit, he met Indian Interior Minister L.K. Advani and Defence Minister George Fernandes.

Dr Salim said that his talks with the two sides were focussing on a three-point agenda which sought de-escalation of hostilities between the two countries.