NEW DELHI, Aug 11 (AFP) - India's Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee Wednesday made his first trip to Indian Kashmir and urged Pakistan to prevent Islamic rebels from entering the disputed region.
"We want peace with our neighbour and resolve all problems, including Kashmir, through talks," Mukherjee was quoted as telling Indian troops in Kashmir's Ladakh area by the Press Trust of India (PTI) news agency.
"We are ready to talk on all issues to establish peace and stability in the region. But the other side must show equal measure of sincerity," he said addressing the third infantry division.
"Cross border infiltration (of Islamic rebels) must be stopped. But our soldiers must remain as vigilant as ever before."
It was Mukherjee's first trip to the region. He was accompanied by the army chief General Nirmal Chandra Vij.
Mukherjee will go to the strategic Siachen Glacier in Kashmir on Friday, PTI said.
His comments came as India and Pakistan held talks on a range of issues including terrorism and demilitarisation of the glacier.
India has frequently accused Pakistan of backing Islamic militants fighting its forces in Indian controlled Kashmir.
Pakistan denies the allegations, saying it only offers moral support and calls the guerrillas "freedom fighters".