January 29, 2003	Wednesday	Ziqa’ad 25,1423

SRINAGAR, Jan 28: A Kashmiri group accused Iranian President Mohammad Khatami on Tuesday of hurting the sentiments of Kashmiris by participating in India’s Republic Day parade, a display of military strength.

Khatami was the chief guest at Sunday’s parade in New Delhi where India rolled out its missiles, including the 800-km nuclear-capable Agni, which can reach most parts of Pakistan.

“Mohammad Khatami participated in an exhibition of Indian arms which are meant for the destruction of Muslims,” the Jamiat-ul-Mujahideen said in a statement. “This has hurt Iranian dignity and the sentiments of Kashmiri Muslims.”

“Kashmiri Muslims consider Iran as a friend but Khatami’s presence in the arms exhibition reflects his dubious policy. He (Khatami) is well aware of New Delhi’s anti-Muslim policies, but still he chose to sit with them,” the statement said.—Reuters