May 23, 2002	Thursday	Rabi-ul-Awwal 10,1423

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ISLAMABAD, May 22: Amidst heightening tension between the two South Asian neighbours reeling on the verge of war, Pakistan on Wednesday rebuffed Indian prime minister’s threat of “decisive war” urging him to desist from whipping up war hysteria.

“Indian leadership should desist from such blatant war-mongering and instead focus on addressing their internal problems as well as resolving peacefully their many disputes with their neighbours,” said a statement issued here late Wednesday night.

Reacting to Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee’s statement threatening Pakistan of “decisive battle,” a government spokesman said that a strong note had been taken of Indian prime minister’s statement.

“The Indian leaders must not misunderstand the restraint so far shown by Pakistan in the face of their provocative statements and moves,” said the spokesman.

“Pakistan has the ability to defend itself against any war imposed by India.”

In the latest bout of sabre rattling, Pakistan said: “India must not harbour any illusions of waging and winning a war against Pakistan. This would be a major miscalculation leading to grave consequences.”

LONE’s MURDER: Earlier, in another statement, the government also rejected the despicable attempt of some Indian leaders to blame Pakistan for the murder of an All Parties Hurriyat Conference leader, Abdul Ghani Lone.