India offers to resume peace talks with Pakistan

India's offer for bilateral talks is the first sign of a thaw in relations between to two nuclear rivals since the Mumbai bombing 15 months ago.

India has offered to resume bilateral talks with Pakistan, the first sign of a thaw in relations between the two South Asian rivals after the deadly Mumbai terrorist attacks nearly 15 months ago, an official said Thursday.

India has proposed talks between the foreign secretaries of the two countries to discuss terrorism and other issues, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity citing the sensitivity of the matter.

“India will enter into the discussions with an open and positive mind and will raise all relevant issues,” the official said. “The issue of counterterrorism will be raised, as well as other issues to contribute to creating an atmosphere of peace and security.”

India and Pakistan launched talks in 2004 aimed at resolving several disputes between the nuclear-armed neighbors, including the Himalayan region of Kashmir.

India put the peace process on hold soon after the terrorist attacks in Mumbai in November 2008 that left 166 people dead. India blamed the attack on the Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba.

New Delhi has insisted that Islamabad provide evidence of steps to dismantle terrorist networks that operate out of its territory and bring those accused of planning the Mumbai attacks to justice.