LDALL PM 2 LAST

Dismissing speculation about lack of coordination
between the government and the party, the Prime Minister said
he meets Sonia Gandhi every week to discuss some major issues
and continued to receive "advice and guidance" from her.
To a question, Singh said he had renewed his offer to
39-year-old Rahul to join the government but he has always
been reluctant.
"Rahul is very qualified to hold a Cabinet post. I
have discussed with him on a number of occasions though I
don't remember exactly the date when I discussed with him
last," Singh said.
He said as and when Rahul decides to join the Cabinet he
would be given an appropriate role.
Singh, however, deftly evaded a question on the
possibility of a Cabinet reshuffle or expansion, saying this
could not be announced at a press conference and the media
would come to know whenever there is any such move.
Delving on internal security, the Prime Minister said
naxalism had emerged as the "biggest" challenge and the
government was working on "systemic changes" to deal with this
as well as terrorism.
Referring to Kashmir, Singh, who will be visiting the
state next month, said the government was ready to talk to all
those outside the political mainstream if they shun violence.
To a question on Indo-Pak ties, Singh said "trust
deficit" between the two neighbouring countries was the
"biggest problem" coming in the way of any improvement in
bilateral relations.
Singh also said India is willing to discuss all
outstanding issues with Pakistan but it should ensure that its
soil is not used for terrorism against this country.
On the forthcoming dialogue between Foreign Ministers
of the two countries, Singh said India is going to make a new
beginning in improving the bilateral relations, which have
seen a chill after the Mumbai attacks in November 2008.
"It has been my effort to try to reduce the gap
between our two countries without surrendering or affecting
our vital national interest," Singh said. PTI AKK
MRD


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