We are not afraid of K word: Manmohan Singh

New Delhi : Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Monday said India is not afraid of the K word, meaning Kashmir, and is ready to engage Pakistan if the country stops terrorist activities.

?As for as India?s relation with Pakistan is concerned, I have always maintained that a strong peaceful, moderate Pakistan is in the interest of South Asia, India, and world as a whole. We are committed to resolve all outstanding issues, including the word K,? Singh said at a joint press conference with US President Barack Obama at Hyderabad House here.

?It?s not that we are afraid of the K word, but it is our request that we cannot be hold talks while the terror machine is as active as before. Once Pakistan moves away from this terror-induced coercion, we will be happy to resolve all pending issues with the country,? Singh said.

Meanwhile, asked about US role in reducing Indo-Pak tension, particularly with reference to Kashmir, Obama said: ?There are longstanding disputes between India and Pakistan.?

?But, as I said yesterday (Sunday), I am absolutely confident that both Pakistan and India have an interest in reducing tensions between two countries.?

Obama further said USA will not ?impose? a solution on Indo-Pak.

?USA cannot impose a solution to this problem. But we are happy to play any role the parties think is appropriate, in the interest of the region (Kashmir), the countries and USA,? said Obama.

?I hope that conversation starts soon, maybe not on that flash point (Kashmir) but with confidence building measures,? the US President said.

He further said: ?I think PM Sing, throughout his career and prime ministership, has consistently spoken out both publicly and privately on his personal desire and commitment to reduce tension between Pakistan and India. PM Singh is relentless in his desire for peace.?

?I think they (India, Pakistan) will find mechanism to sort out difficult issues soon,? Obama said.