Pakistan rejects Modi's 'proxy war' claims

Pakistan yesterday dismissed as "baseless rhetoric" claims by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi that it was waging a "proxy war" in disputed Kashmir.
India's Hindu nationalist leader made the remarks on Tuesday shortly before visiting Kargil.
New Delhi has long accused Islamabad of using Pakistan-based militant groups such as the outlawed Lashkar-e-Taiba against its forces in the divided Himalayan territory -- a claim Islamabad denies.
Pakistan's foreign ministry said Modi was "repeating baseless rhetoric against Pakistan", in a statement released yesterday, and urged Delhi to adopt a more constructive approach.
"The press reports of Indian accusations, at the highest political level, are most unfortunate," the statement said, stressing Pakistan's desire for "good neighbourly relations".
"It would be in the larger interest of the regional peace that instead of engaging in a blame game, the two countries should focus on resolving all issues through dialogue and work together to promote friendly and cooperative relations."
Fighting between Indian forces and rebel groups seeking independence for Kashmir or a merger of the territory with Pakistan has killed tens of thousands since 1989, mostly civilians.
A Pakistani army incursion in the Kargil area 15 years ago triggered a conflict between the two countries that left more than 1,000 dead on both sides.