Highlights of PM's speech in Kashmir

The following are the highlights of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's speech here in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday.

The following are the highlights of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's speech here in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday:

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-- We have to reverse the brain drain that has denuded the state of its teachers, doctors, engineers and intellectuals.

-- I would also urge that the elections to local bodies be held quickly.

-- The IT sector in Jammu and Kashmir can be as developed as in other states of the country.

-- The picturesque Dal Lake is the icon of the tourism industry. We have been funding a project for the conservation of the lake but progress has been slow.

-- The era of violence and terrorism is coming to an end.

-- I wish to say again today that we are willing to talk to anyone who has any meaningful ideas for promoting peace and development in Kashmir.

-- All the progress that we achieved (in India-Pakistan talks) has been repeatedly thwarted by acts of terrorism.

-- I strongly believe that the majority of the people in Pakistan seek good neighbourly and cooperative relations between India and Pakistan. They seek a permanent peace. This is our view as well.

-- We will press the government of Pakistan to curb the activities of those elements that are engaging in terrorism in India.

-- The real face of the terrorists is clear for the people of Pakistan to see with their own eyes.

-- I call upon the people and government of Pakistan to show their sincerity and good faith. As I have said many times before, we will not be found wanting in our response.