WASHINGTON, May 5: US Secretary of State Colin Powell on Monday hailed a “moment of opportunity” in the standoff between India and Pakistan, as he dispatched his deputy to nurture emerging hopes of dialogue between the two countries.

“We are pleased at some of the developments that have taken place over the last 10 days or so with positive statements coming from both sides,” Powell told reporters after meeting NATO Secretary General Lord Robertson.

“This is a moment of opportunity where both sides seem to be reaching out.”

Mr Powell’s number two Richard Armitage was due to leave later on Monday on a trip to India, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

“Deputy Secretary Armitage will encourage this process of reaching out and the United States will be ready to assist both sides as they move forward,” said Powell.

Mr Powell, who has kept up intense telephone diplomacy on South Asia and made several visits to the region over the last year, said he spoke over the last few days to Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Zafarullah Jamali.

He said he also spoke to Indian Foreign Minister Yashwant Sinha.

India said on Monday it had sent a “positive” reply to Pakistan’s offer of talks, encouraging hopes of a breakthrough.

Mr Vajpayee sparked hope for renewed dialogue on April 18, surprising observers by agreeing to Pakistan’s long-standing offer of talks.—AFP