Manmohan welcomes Pak ideas for peace

Singh said he welcomed recent new ideas from Pakistan to resolve differences, which include a row over disputed Kashmir that has triggered two wars since 1947.

"I had read about some new ideas and thoughts expressed from Pakistan. We welcome all ideas as they contribute to the ongoing thought process," Singh told a public gathering in the northern border city of Amritsar.

Pakistan's President Pervez Musharraf said this month that he was opposed to independence for Kashmir, but India and Pakistan would have to compromise over the disputed territory and be prepared to give up their positions in Kashmir.

Singh did not make a direct reference to Musharraf's proposal, but said he wanted lasting peace in the region.

"The destinies of our two nations are interlinked. We need to put the past behind us," Singh said about 25 kilometers from the border with Pakistan in Punjab state.

"We need to think about our collective destiny, a destiny where both neighbours can work jointly towards a better future for their citizens."

He said relations with Pakistan had improved in the past two years. India and Pakistan launched a peace process in 2004 under which they launched transport links and improved ties.