India's prime minister has snubbed the Pakistani president at a summit. It followed a handshake which raised hopes of a reconciliation.
At the meeting in Nepal, President Musharraf surprised Prime Minister Vajpayee by offering his hand to shake, after a speech offering friendship and dialogue.He said: "I extend a hand of genuine and sincere friendship to Prime Minister Vajpayee. Let us together commence a journey of peace, harmony and progress in South Asia."Mr Vajpayee took it, with a faint smile, but later responded with a strongly worded rebuttal demanding that Pakistan stop harbouring Islamic militants.He then walked past the waiting Pakistani leader after the inaugural speeches of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation summit.After the speeches, the leaders made their way out of the convention hall. General Musharraf shook hands with Maldivian President Abdul Gayoom, and waited on the stage as Mr Vajpayee warmly greeted Sri Lankan President Chandrika Kumaratunga.However, Mr Vajpayee walked by Gen Musharraf, looking straight ahead as he slowly passed him and was escorted down the stage.
PA